Manassas Journal Messenger | Chamber collects school supplies
Back-to-school shopping is a ritual that most students look forward to.
However, for some area families, shopping for school supplies is just another expense that they must struggle to meet.
The Prince William Regional Chamber of Commerce’s Tools for School supply drive, which collects and distributes the basic tools needed for academic success now through Aug. 15, is a resource for area struggling families.
The program is a link between area businesses, which serve as drop-off sites and promote the drive, and the community, whose donations are distributed to students needing supplies.
The chamber partners with Bargain Boxes to collect supplies throughout the region and New Life Community Development Corporation to distribute the items.
Last year, more than 800 children benefited from Tools for School.
The small act of donating school supplies can have a huge impact on a child’s school experience.
“One boy who received supplies from last year’s drive said: ‘When my teacher said who doesn’t have the things on the supply list? Guess what? I didn’t have to raise my hand,’ ” said Veronica Roth of Transitional Housing Benedictine Aid & Relief for Neighbors Inc. “That meant worlds to him. Thank you,” she said.
To take part in the Tools for School drive, bring new school supplies to any participating location, or the Regional Chamber office at 4320 Ridgewood Center Drive in Woodbridge by Aug. 15.
A full list of needed supplies and drop-off sites can be found at www.regionalchamber.org or call (703) 590-5000, Ext. 106.
The Prince William Regional Chamber of Commerce has more than 1,000 members made up of businesses and community.