STRUTHERS, Ohio - Struthers City Schools has announced a new resource available to students thanks to the donation from the family of a former teacher in the district and the support of the United Way of Youngstown and the Mahoning Valley.

The Ray Bernat Care Closet will be open to students every school day in Struthers Middle School stocked with food, hygiene products and clothing. Struthers apparel such as t-shirts, sweatshirts and sweatpants, as well as coats, boots and shoes will also be available.

The Care Closet was made possible thanks to Dr. Ray Bernat Jr. and his wife Sherry, alongside Cindy Buchenic and Renee Reyes. The closet is named in memory of Ray Bernat, who taught in Struthers from 1972 until 1996.

Bernat taught science and mathematics and both middle and high school levels. He also served as the president of the Struthers Education Association, as well as the boys and girls tennis coach at Struthers. 

Additionally, Bernat taught Struthers Adult Basic Education courses for community members taking classes to get their GEDs.

"Our teachers are on the forefront of seeing the needs of our students, and they are very giving of their time and resources, but they can only provide so much on their own, so we're grateful to the Bernat family who has stepped in to help fill this void and make this resource available providing for students who may need these essential items," said Struthers Middle School Principal Dave Vecchione.

Buchenic, a 6th grade teacher at Struthers Middle School and Bernat's daughter says Bernat loved his community and his students.

"He was the kind of person who would sneak food for his students or get them what they needed," Buchenic said.

Anyone who would like to contribute to the Care Closet financially or through non-perishable food donations can email tchance@ymvunitedway.org.