“Our goal was to offer help without embarrassment. Whether it’s an emergency, after sports, or someone forgets deodorant, students can grab what they need without feeling ashamed.”
[AUSTIN, Texas] At Harmony School of Excellence, supporting students goes beyond academics. Since 2021, the Tiger Pantry has quietly provided comfort, confidence and care for students in need.
Created by staff members who saw a growing need, the pantry offers essential items such as deodorant, toothpaste, soap, feminine hygiene products and gently used uniforms. Located in a private area on campus, it allows students to get what they need discreetly and respectfully.
“Our goal was to offer help without embarrassment,” said Spanish teacher and pantry manager Jennifer Gomez. “Whether it’s an emergency, after sports, or someone forgets deodorant, students can grab what they need without feeling ashamed.”
The pantry also serves as a distribution point for food donations collected through CRLP, PTO and student-led drives. Over time, it has grown into a symbol of community strength and compassion.
“The vast majority of our students are of lower socioeconomic status, and there was a clear need for a discreet, supportive approach,” said former pantry manager Victor Rodriguez Alarcon, College Seminar and Success Advisor.
Staff members including Alarcon, SPED teacher Sarah Anwar and instructional coach Chelsea Kuhrt have helped keep the pantry organized and stocked. Their teamwork ensures the resource remains a welcoming place for students facing hardship.
“This isn’t just about the pantry,” Gomez said. “It’s about showing students their school cares about their well-being as much as their grades.”
As Harmony School of Excellence continues to grow, so does the Tiger Pantry’s impact—a lasting reminder that true excellence includes empathy and community care.
Harmony School of Excellence serves 6th-12th grades and is part of Harmony Public Schools–Central Texas, a tuition-free, public charter school district serving students in grades PK–12. The district focuses on providing a high-quality education emphasizing STEM, college readiness, and character development. Students can apply at HarmonyTX.org/apply.
