Bear Necessities Testimonies
“Volunteering at Bear Necessities has proven to be an incredibly valuable and authentic learning experience for students in the PACE Life Skills Program. This hands-on opportunity allows students to build essential real-world skills in a supportive and meaningful environment. Through tasks such as stocking shelves, organizing clothing and household items, and filling orders. Students actively practice functional math skills like sorting, categorizing, and counting. These activities naturally reinforce concepts in a way that feels purposeful and engaging. At the same time, students strengthen their functional reading abilities by following workplace directions, identifying product labels, and recognizing sizes and item types. Beyond academics, Bear Necessities foster important social-emotional growth. Students develop a sense of responsibility, teamwork, and pride in their work. They begin to understand the impact of helping others and building empathy as they contribute to a resource that supports members of their own school community. Perhaps most importantly, this experience promoted independence and confidence. Students are given the chance to take ownership of meaningful tasks, preparing them for future vocational opportunities. Bear Necessities truly bridges the gap between classroom learning and real-life application, making it an invaluable component of a life skills program. “Northern helping Northern” truly defines our school community. We are proud and grateful to play a role in continuing that spirit of care and connection.
- High School PACE Teacher
“Thank You Bear Necessities! I completed the Bear Necessities product request form for two different student needs. It was user-friendly and I received the requested items in a very short turn-around time. My two students were so happy to receive the items that were badly needed to function in school! I am super excited to know that there are essential resources available to support our students and families beyond basic school supplies.
- HS Emotional Support Teacher
As a teacher, I have seen firsthand the powerful impact that Bear Necessities has on students in need. By providing essential items such as personal care products, and school supplies, this resource meets needs that go far beyond the classroom. One of my students who recently received support was incredibly grateful and that gratitude quickly turned into confidence. I have seen a positive change in how the student approaches school, participates in class, and faces challenges. Having their basic needs met allowed them to focus on learning rather than worrying about what they were missing. Bear Necessities does more than supply items to students in need, it gives students dignity, confidence, and the belief that they can succeed. I am truly thankful for the meaningful difference this resource makes for students.
- Middle School Teacher
On the evening of January 9, 2023, our home was destroyed in an electrical fire, and we lost everything we owned. The very next day, our family was assisted by Northern staff. We left with enough clothing for each of us to have several outfits, along with underwear, socks, shoes, winter coats, toiletries, and even laundry detergent. What a blessing that was. While it didn’t replace all that we lost, it gave us what we needed to take our first steps forward during an incredibly difficult time. As we rebuilt our lives, that generosity was never forgotten. When we learned about Northern’s new “Bear Necessities” program, we immediately knew we wanted to give back. Donating towards this program felt like a meaningful way to help provide for other families who may find themselves facing unexpected hardship-just like we did.
- Northern York Family