Studies show students who come to school with a full belly and clean clothes on their backs perform better, and one Haines City High school teacher said she wants to make sure her students have that head start.

“There was always a need for basic school supplies and then the more you get to know kids, you realize they don’t have a book bag or they don’t have a jacket when it’s cold outside,” said Morgan Hammett, founder of Hornet’s Closet.

Morgan Hammett said she started at Haines City High five years ago a teacher so, she is in touch with the students' needs.

“We call it Hornet’s Closet,” said Hammett. “We have shirts, pants, jackets shoes and this is full of different sanitary items."

Dozens of students have benefited from the program and as the closet grows in donations, its reach throughout then campus will grow.

“Right now it’s people in the community and local businesses that donate to the closet,” said Hammett.

Spectrum News spoke with one student who walked out of the closet with school supplies and clothes. She told me how great it is to have the option. This is something the school principal agrees with.

“It’s all about students first. Haines City High is a home away from home and a support system, and part of that is dressing for success,” said Haines City High’s principal, Adam Lane.  

If you are interested in donating to the closet, email: morgan.hammett@polk-fl.net​