Jenn Fields, a social worker for the Elizabethtown Area School District, has been recognized as one of WGAL's 8 Who Care Award recipients for her service to local students and families in need. Fields was honored at a ceremony on Nov. 20 for her work with the district's Bear Bags Food Program. She was accompanied by superintendent of schools Karen Nell and assistant to the superintendent Richard Schwarzman at the awards ceremony.

Fields, who has been with the district for more than 10 years, founded the Bear Bags Food Program to address basic needs such as food, clothing, and shelter, thereby eliminating barriers to education. What started as a small initiative to help students struggling with hunger has since grown into an important resource for dozens of local families.

The program is operated by volunteers, including students from Elizabethtown Area High School's life skills class. Each week, students participate in packing the Bear Bags with food items, and the bags are then distributed to families in need. This hands-on experience allows students to develop essential life skills while making a meaningful contribution to their community.

The Bear Bags Food Program is entirely funded by donations, and families can visit the district's food pantry once a month to receive free items, ensuring they have access to necessities. Positive feedback from program participants highlights its critical role in supporting the community. To learn more about the program, visit http://www.etownschools.org and search for "Bear Bags."

In addition to the Bear Bags program, Fields is involved in initiatives aimed at reducing truancy and supporting families facing other challenges. Her leadership and commitment have been instrumental in the success of the program, which continues to thrive thanks to the support of local volunteers and community organizations.