Stearns Bank cares for 742 students

Last week, many of us celebrated Thanksgiving in warm homes with warm food. We enjoyed the long weekend, spending time with family and friends, visiting and relaxing before going back to school and work this week.  

But what about District 742 students and families who are experiencing homelessness? The pandemic showcased what folks in our schools already knew: there are students who count on school days for breakfast and lunch because they aren’t sure where their supper is coming from. 

This Thanksgiving season, Stearns Bank was proud to support the students of St. Cloud Area School District 742 by donating $16,000, to feed over 250 students in need during the Thanksgiving break.

“Many of our Stearns Bank employees have their own children enrolled in the St. Cloud School District, and for us, it’s about ensuring that every child and family has access to reliable nourishment, no matter their circumstances,” Rene Knippel, senior brand marketing manager at Stearns Bank, said in the media release.

About 7% of ISD 742’s student population experienced homelessness during the 2023-24 academic year, according to the district.

Together we can create impactful change within our communities.

___________
Want to support kids in District 742 experiencing homelessness? Make a donation to our Homeless Fund: https://leaf742.org/what-we-do/homeless-student-services-fund/