By Josh McFadden | [email protected]

Painting and food came together at Jordan Hills Elementary School on Feb. 8 for an evening of fundraising. 

West Jordan Women in Business joined forces with That Paint Thing at the school for Painting for the Pantries in an effort to raise money for the Principal’s Pantry, which provides food for hungry and needy school children in the Jordan School District. 

The event was open to the public to open their hearts and wallets—as well as their creativity—to this charitable cause. Attendees had several options to contribute to the Principal’s Pantry. For $60 two people could enjoy dinner and paint a picture, as instructed by representatives from That Paint Thing, a local traveling paint party that combines art and food for date nights, parties and other events. A person could also choose dinner and painting for one for the cost of $40. For those attendees not feeling the creative juices flowing, a dinner-only option was available for $20. 

Local organizations and businesses were also able to sponsor the event and donate $200, $400 or $750. The highest donation level, called Da Vinci level, gave the donor raffle tickets, gifts, VIP seating with four dinner tickets and four paint tickets, two tickets to future That Paint Thing events, a plaque, sponsorship signage at the event and the company’s logo on all event advertising. 

A total of 109 people attended the event and collectively donated more than $5,200. All proceeds went to help the more than 1,700 Jordan District students who benefit from the Principal’s Pantry. 

“[The money] helps to go to every school in the district to discreetly send food home on the weekend to kids in need,” said Denise Hassett, chair of the West Jordan Chamber Women in Business. 

Hassett said when school principals are aware of students who may not have enough food at home, they give them a bag with nutritious food that they can easily make into meals. Principals and teachers give the food in a confidential manner so no one else knows they are receiving it. 

“Administrators, teachers and employees are looking out for kids,” she said.

The Principal’s Pantry also helps needy students during school hours if teachers notice they aren’t getting enough to eat. Those students on free or reduced lunch can use the pantry, but teachers and administrators can identify anyone they feel could benefit.    

Hassett was grateful for the dinner and painting fundraiser and for all those who generously donated. 

“Every dollar raised goes far,” she said.