Our ministry receives referrals from many different agencies and organizations within the community, one of which being our local schools. We’re excited to highlight the impact God has had through Manna at one of our local schools, Jacox Elementary School in Norfolk!

What is your title at Jacox Elementary and how long have you worked there?

My title is Family Engagement Specialist, and I have worked at Jacox Elementary for 21 years. I have been employed with Norfolk Public Schools for 32 years.

What do you love most about your job?

I truly love ensuring that families have what they are most in need of. Also, I enjoy referring parents to partners/resources to help meet their needs. In addition, I love creating partnerships that would best meet the needs of our scholars, parents, staff and the community.

How did you get connected with Manna Ministry?

I was connected with Manna Ministry through two of my partners and we have partnered for a little less than three years.

How have you utilized Manna Ministry as a resource within your school?

When parents reach out to either myself or one of the staff members for food, I turn to Manna Ministry for assistance. In addition, Manna Ministry has assisted with paying rent and/or deposits for new housing.

Prior to partnering with Manna Ministry for food and housing deposits, I wouldreach out to staff and other community partners for assistance.

What is the biggest need you see within your school and how can we partner with or be praying for you/your school?

Jacox has several needs, but most importantly, we are in need of permanent housing for several of our families. Many of our families are living in hotels, some are doubled up and several are living place to place. In addition, as you already know, we have a huge food insecurity. Our scholars are also in need of uniforms, coats and supplies year round. We need volunteers to come read to or listen to scholars read and to help uplift the literacy gap and assist our scholars with reading on grade level.

Myself and the administration wouldlike to thank Manna Ministry for partnering with us for the 2023-2024 School Year. Because of this partnership, you ensured that needs of the families were met upon our request. We are interested in continuing the partnership throughout the summer to help ensure that food insecurities are not going to be a problem for the Jacox community.

Thank you for not only meeting the needs of the family, but also for taking the time to shop for the food items and for delivering the food to their doorstep.

We truly can't thank you enough for ALL that you do for Jacox Elementary!

Respectfully, Yours In the Service of Children and Families,

Ms. Alice Randle

Family Engagement Specialist

Jacox Elementary