Kids climb up into a firetruck from the Warr Acres Fire Department. Pop and Tejano music pound out of the DJ’s speakers. Parents cluster around tables to learn about public library services, free support groups, lunch programs and affordable housing. Complimentary tote bags are stuffed with free diapers, toys, books and flyers.
That was the scene at a Communities and Schools Together —or CAST — Resource Rally Tuesday. The event was hosted by the Putnam City Schools Foundation, Feed the Children and the National Basketball Players Association Foundation. Four hundred families in the school district received donated food for 20 meals, toiletries and cosmetics in addition to resource information from 20 community partners.
“We’re providing resources for families in need,” said Joy Murphy, executive director of the Putnam City Schools Foundation. “A lot of people take for granted the amount of resources that are provided throughout the school year. In the June and July months, people still need those resources and rely on school systems to provide them.”
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than 15% of Oklahoma City residents live below the poverty line. Women of child-bearing age make up the largest demographic group living in poverty…