Jeanne Sheehan Memorial Charity

Jeanne, or Jeannie to those who knew her closest, was an employee of the Amesbury Public Schools for 23 years, where she managed the cafeteria. She took much pride in her kitchen, and was a true reflection of hard work, compassion, and love. Over the years, Jeanne became aware of the many children who went hungry or struggled to have food. This simply broke her heart. In the spring of 2016, Jeanne set her mind to helping the children so that they wouldn’t go hungry over the summer. Along with her fellow cafeteria workers, the “Kitchen Krusaders,” they started Whoopie Pie Wednesday. In just two days, the ladies had made over $1,200 in their fundraiser.

The Kitchen Krusaders continued their efforts the following years, selling whoopie pies before holidays like Christmas and Easter, and in the 2016-2017 school-year, they made $3,100. Donating her time and energy was one thing, but Jeanne didn’t stop there. She reached out to all families in need within the district and offered help over the summer. She and her long-time friend and co-worker, Karen Clark, would go to Market Basket at 6:30 AM and buy 55 lunches and 55 dinners for the eleven families in need. They would continue this for nine weeks over the summer.

Then, once COVID hit, school lunch and breakfasts would be available, free of charge. Jeanne was then tasked to put together lunches for all of Amesbury, which she completed with a finesse like no other. She came to know people picking up lunches for their children, and shared stories, welcomes, and a warm smile. Whether it was splintering sunshine, a washout of wind or rain, or snow… Jeanne was out and ready to serve. She even donned festive clothing near holidays, which brought everyone great joy.

And finally, at the end of a long year, after watching students and families struggle, Jeanne was known to personally pay off student accounts for families in desperate need. She was a true behind-the-scenes master. She never asked for credit and expected nothing in return.

Jeanne was one of a kind and had a heart that touched so many. She was a true champion to those underserved. We would like to honor her work and continue the good that she started by having a charity to support children in Amesbury Public Schools who are hungry. Through this charity, we aim to support families in times of need, help families feel food-secure so they can learn, and continue to make Amesbury the best place to raise a family.