BEATRICE, Neb. - The Beatrice Mini Mart has now been up and running for two years and continues to be a way to bridge the gap in food insecurity in the Beatrice community. 

With a mini mart at both the high school and middle school, BHS Principal Phillip Voigt says one goal of the mini mart is to provide students with food, but in a more dignified way. 

"The mini mart was created in a way for students to receive food when they need it but in a dignified way," Voigt said. "People within the community provide us with donations of food and also monetary donations."

Most of the food in the mini mart comes from Russ's Market, as school Student Resource Officers shop for products. Student Resource Officer Brittney Ruh says the mini mart also is a way to teach students how to shop effectively, while also helping a primary need. 

"We set it up as how the grocery store would set it up, so it feels less like a handout," Ruh said. "I also think it kids a unique perspective on how to shop later in life as well."