Thanks to the generosity of its community students in the Northern Lehigh School District won’t have to worry about going hungry when they’re outside of school.

Superintendent Matthew J. Link at Monday’s school board meeting recognized a group of donors whom he said “have really made it a point to ensure food security for the students in the Northern Lehigh School District to the next level.”

“I am just blown away to announce that we received a check for $10,000 to the Backpack Buddies and summer food program in combination from St. John’s Lutheran Church, Second Chance Shop, The Women’s Involved with Sharing and Helping, and various church donors from around the community,” Link said.

“That money will go a long way in assisting Mrs. (Sue) Bahnick and her team in ensuring that none of the students in the Northern Lehigh community go hungry over the weekends or through the summer.

Family gives donation

Link also acknowledged the family of Richard “Dick” Jones, who donated $1,000 to the district in his name.

Jones graduated from Slatington High School in 1951, and began his coaching career in basketball at Slatington High School in 1963, where he served as junior varsity and assistant varsity coach. In 1968, he became varsity basketball head coach, and served in that capacity until 1971.

From 1976-1984, Jones coached girls basketball. He was also assistant track coach for 17 years, and spent one season as assistant baseball coach.

Jones retired in 1986 after 39 seasons in coaching, 30 years as an English teacher, and 51 seasons as a football scoreboard operator.

He was inducted into the Northern Lehigh Ring of Honor in 2010.

“So thank you to his family for their generosity,” Link said.

“That money will obviously go to good support for the school district here.”