Hundreds of Burlington County students will be better prepared for the start of the new school year thanks to a successful backpack and school supplies drive organized by State Senator Troy Singleton, the Burlington County Commissioners, and the Burlington County Sheriff’s Office.
Thousands of items were collected during this year’s drive, including hundreds of backpacks, notebooks, binders, folders, pens, pencils, crayons, markers and other supplies. Most of the collected items were distributed to 500 students from financially challenged families on August 15.
The remaining items were sent to partner agencies and groups to distribute to families in need.
“We asked Burlington County residents and businesses to donate new backpacks and supplies for children in need, and they once again stepped up and delivered in a very impactful way,” said Senator Singleton, who assisted children and families to collect supplies during the August 15th event with Burlington County Commissioner Director Felicia Hopson, Commissioner Deputy Director Allison Eckel, Commissioner Randy Brolo, Sheriff James Kostoplis, and dozens of other volunteers.
“Because of their generosity and support, hundreds of children will be equipped for the start of school that otherwise might not have been,” Senator Singleton said.
“Burlington County is a community that supports one another and our residents’ generosity and community spirit shined again this year,” added Burlington County Commissioner Director Felicia Hopson. “Their response to this drive was nothing short of overwhelming.”
“Every child deserves to get the best possible education, and they should all begin the year with supplies needed to help them learn and succeed,” said Commissioner Deputy Director Allison Eckel. “Thanks to the kindness and generosity of our residents, businesses, partner organizations, and volunteers, we are able to make sure hundreds of students are well supplied for the start of the new school year.”
“Costs for school supplies and numerous other household items have risen at an alarming rate so that many families are struggling to provide even the most basics of necessities,” added Commissioner Brolo. “This drive provided aid to numerous families so they would not have to stress over school supplies.”
Sheriff James Kostoplis, whose office helps distribute toys and other household goods to needy families during the holidays and throughout the year, said the drive is another reminder of residents’ generosity.
“We are never surprised by our residents’ capacity to care, but we are always appreciative of it,” said Sheriff Kostoplis. “We want to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who donated items or volunteered their time to assist with the distribution.”
