By Amy Woods
According to the National Retail Federation, the average family spent nearly $800 last year to prepare one child for school — an amount that is the highest in the history of the survey.
Back to School PBC is an annual event that helps prepare at-risk children for the upcoming academic year. Children are paired with volunteers to pick out new backpacks, supplies, uniforms and socks and shoes.
Children also receive haircuts, healthy meals and snacks. Participating families have access to basic health care. The South County event takes place July 30 at the Village Academy Center, 400 SW 12th Ave., Delray Beach.
“Thousands of low-income families in our community struggle to provide the basics, let alone prepare their children for the upcoming school year,” said Ali Rubin, of the Spirit of Giving Network, a nonprofit that partners with Palm Beach County’s Countywide Community Revitalization Team to spearhead the event.
Back to School PBC serves more than 5,000 students annually, and donations are needed.
“Now, more than ever, it is critical that we continue to provide these families with the sense of stability, security and support that Back to School PBC offers,” Rubin said.
For more information, call 561-385-0144 or visit spiritofgivingnetwork.com.
Literacy Coalition has new AmeriCorps director
Lorie Graham has joined the Literacy Coalition of Palm Beach County as the new Literacy AmeriCorps director.
Graham comes to the organization from the Palm Beach County School District, where she taught English for eight years. She also has experience with nonprofits.
“Her wealth of varied experience in education, nonprofit management and communications makes her the perfect fit for this job,” said Kristin Calder, the coalition’s CEO.
Graham is focused on recruiting more Literacy AmeriCorps members. Recruits work 35 to 42 hours each week providing services to ensure children and adults have the reading skills necessary to succeed in school and life.
“We’re excited that Lorie has joined our team,” Calder said.
For more information, call 561-279-9103 or visit literacypbc.org.
Send news and notes to Amy Woods at flamywoods@bellsouth.net.
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