Why FORT Matters: A Letter from Our Social Worker

Dear Seawell Families,

I know that behind every child who arrives at school with what they need is a quiet network of support. I'm proud to partner with our PTA as part of FORT (Family Outreach Team) and hope that you'll join me. There are many ways to meaningfully contribute, either by participating or making a donation to help fund the program.

Emergencies happen all year round. We can never predict when or what a family may need during the school year. I've worked with parents choosing between feeding their children or paying the electric bill, families needing basic household items, and others facing unexpected crises. These moments don't wait for convenient times, and neither does FORT.

The holiday season brings additional challenges, leaving vulnerable students without consistent meals and resources. This is when FORT truly shines, serving as the feet on the ground to make sure each student is taken care of.

When our church partner can't find enough volunteers to sponsor every family, FORT steps in. They purchase gifts, wrap presents, promote food drives, and coordinate distributions. Most importantly, they help our families feel seen and valued.

Generous donations to the PTA help FORT purchase Food Lion gift cards for families in crisis, cover baskets and supplies for holiday distributions, address hygiene needs, and respond to emergent situations throughout the year.

FORT connects us with community resources like TABLE, IFC, and PORCH. They do countless things I'm endlessly grateful for. Every child at Seawell deserves to feel secure and cared for, and FORT makes that possible.

With gratitude,

Jodeci Farrington, MSW
School Social Worker
Seawell Elementary School

What FORT Does for Seawell Families

Year-Round Support

• Emergency assistance for families facing unexpected hardships

• Food Lion gift cards for families choosing between groceries and utilities

• Hygiene products and essential household items

Food & Holiday Drives

• Organize community-wide food collections

• Ensure every referred child receives Christmas gifts

• Purchase and assemble food baskets with dietary-appropriate gift cards

• Wrap gifts and run distribution events

Community Connections

• Partner with TABLE, IFC, and PORCH

• Purchase needed items when sponsorships fall short

• Provide materials and supplies for all distributions