The Colonie Central High School community is rallying to support the Wolf Pack Care Outreach Center, an initiative dedicated to ensuring students have access to food and hygiene products when they need them most. From weekend food bags to snacks during the school day, the program aims to meet the needs of students discreetly and compassionately.

“Every student deserves to feel supported and cared for,” said principal William Behrle. “The Wolf Pack Care Outreach Center is a powerful example of how our community comes together to ensure no student is left without.”

This year, the program has expanded its reach through new partnerships and innovative efforts. While the center was previously supported by Hannaford, this year it teamed up with iCARE to host a food drive, and a promising partnership with Christ the Life Church is in the works to provide ongoing support.

Life Skills students pack the food bags, which are discreetly delivered to the attendance office for students to pick up on Fridays. In addition to food, hygiene products and snacks are also made available for students during the school day.

“The program is open to any student based on need, not economic status,” said CCHS social worker Kerri Audino. “Referrals come from faculty, staff, and administrators through an internal process, and occasionally, families reach out for support directly. After a student is referred, the program connects with the family to obtain parental permission.”

The Wolf Pack Outreach Center currently supports seven families, and as needs continue to grow, community contributions are essential. 

“Snack and hygiene drives are planned throughout the year to keep shelves stocked and ensure students’ needs are met,” added Audino.

The Wolf Pack Outreach Center embodies the true spirit of the pack: caring for one another and ensuring that every student has the resources they need to succeed.

More Information

For more information or ways to get involved, please contact Kerri Audino at audinok@scolonie.org or Jess Rippel at rippelj@scolonie.org.