More than 900 children from all across MetroWest have brand new, fully stocked backpacks thanks to the United Way of Tri-County's (UWOTC) Tools for School program.
In August, 934 backpacks and essential supplies were distributed through 14 different agencies this year. Thanks to donations both big and small — and help from our many volunteers, students from lower-income families are starting out the year on a level playing field, ready to learn.
"Providing these 'Tools for School' is about more than just a backpack — it's about giving every child the chance to start the school year with confidence and dignity," said Barbara LaGrenade, program coordinator and Marlborough Community Cupboard (MCC) Director. "For families who are struggling financially, these backpacks lift a burden and show them their community cares."
Tools for School was once again a true community effort, thanks to contributions by 146 community partners, churches and local families, and a total of 11 independent supply drives. Volunteers helped stuff backpacks, many of them donated, with grade-specific supplies, from pencils to paint sets and scientific calculators to spiral notebooks.
The program also allowed sponsors to fulfil the wishes of a specific child (a black Nike elite backpack for a boy in high school, for example, or a pink or purple one for a student in elementary school), then add supplies and bring it in. Backpacks were distributed to community agencies including our Pearl Street Cupboard & Café, MCC, WHEAT Community Connections, the South Middlesex Opportunity Council, and more, so they can get the right backpack to each child.
Our friends at one of these agencies, the Milford Youth Center, distributed their 50 backpacks during a fun Back-to-School party and Open House complete with high-energy fitness, a bounce house and free haircuts for families in need. Several local hair salons and barber shops, including Haven Beauty of Hopkinton, were there to give kids stylish undercuts, braids and manbuns, giving them a visible boost in confidence.
It's an expense many families can't afford. With the cost of everything high these days, we know many families are struggling to get by.
"Back-to-school season is one of the most financially stressful times of the year for many families," LaGrenade said. "With the rising cost of backpacks and basic school supplies, many parents are forced to make tough choices. Our program is here to help bridge that gap and ensure every child starts the school year with the tools they need to succeed."
With Tools for School complete, LaGrenade turns her focus next to our Hope for the Holidays program, which provides gifts at Christmastime for families in need. Learn more at: uwotc.org/hope