Volunteers at Southwest Human Development will organize donations and fill backpacks for Valley children ahead of the new school year this fall (submitted photo).
School supplies, clothing and equipment can cost up to $600 per child each school year, and for many Arizona families, that cost is out of reach. With that in mind, over the summer months, Southwest Human Development will host a Back-to-School Drive to help ensure children start school this fall prepared, confident and ready to learn.
“Now more than ever, kids need the right tools to feel confident walking into the classroom,” said Tay Wright, manager of Volunteer Engagement Development at Southwest Human Development. “With community support, we can make sure every child we serve is prepared and set up for success.”
The drive, which runs from June 1 to July 6, collects new items, including backpacks, notebooks, binders, pencils, pens, highlighters and other classroom essentials. Donations will directly support children and families in programs such as Kinship and Adoption Services, Healthy Families and other early childhood initiatives. Drop off starts June 1 at Green Gables 2345 E. Thomas Road, Suite #350.
In addition to physical donations, supporters can participate through an online shopping option, making it easy to purchase and donate supplies from anywhere.
Southwest Human Development serves more than 140,000 children and families each year through 40 programs focused on early childhood development and family support.
Community members, businesses and organizations are encouraged to donate supplies or host a drive. For more information or to contribute, visit www.swhd.org/schoolready.
