TBird Nest continues, expands supporting student needs
February 2, 2021
The T-Bird Nest offers a wide variety of free services for Bellevue West students including food, household supplies, and most recently, feminine hygiene products.
The program is sponsored by Bellevue West teachers Megan Flynn and Brenna Dacey. According to Dacey, it started off as an idea between a former teacher and herself. Together they held free “thrift shops” in their classrooms for students to get clothes donated from staff and students.
In the 2019-20 school year a group of students aiming to address students’ needs used their CBL project to expand its amenities.
Dacey said they provide students grab-and-go snack items for food items for the weekend. They also have clothing and hygiene items.
“We also have household items, like laundry detergent, for students to take home,” Dacey said in an email. “We have some clothing available, including T-Bird apparel and winter items. We have also placed period products in the bathrooms.”
Dacey said supplies come from community members and teachers. She said she also purchases commonly used items such as fruit snacks and granola bars. Last year the T-Bird Nest received a grant that has also helped offset the costs.
Dacey said she allows students in her classes to eat food from the pantry.
“I think by allowing any student, without any requirement, to request an item helps to decrease any stigma that may be associated with receiving support,” Dacey said.
The T-Bird Nest is located in Dacey’s room, 151, and according to Dacey is available for students whenever they need. She said some students stop in during passing or GPS for a quick snack, but arrangements for alternate pick ups can be made if necessary.
“I think any time we provide something for a student in need, whether it’s because they forgot to grab something for breakfast or they need food for the weekend, we have accomplished our goal.”
