As the new school year approaches, the National Council for Jewish Women (NCJW) hosted its annual Back to School Store initiative in collaboration with Jewish Family Services (JFS) and 12 other social service agencies.
The program has distributed more than 400 backpacks filled with school supplies to underserved children in the area.
NCJW’s program is intended to alleviate financial burdens on struggling families with students and ensure students begin a new school year with confidence. Each participating student received a personalized gift bag including a new backpack, clothes, school supplies and winter coat based on information provided by their parent or caregiver.
Through its KesherKC service and resource program, JFS distributed 73 gift bags during two recent Back to School Store events, one at The J and one at JFS’ Brookside location.
“It was so nice to see parents relaxed and enjoying time coloring, reading and blowing bubbles with their kids," said Moshit Snir, KesherKC community resource coordinator. “One young boy pulled out his backpack and grinned ear to ear, saying, ‘It’s perfect.’”
“We are so thankful for JFS’ long partnership with NCJW and their generous support,” said Alison Tellatin, KesherKC social work manager. “They care deeply about our community’s youth and their education.”
JFS’ KesherKC program connects people with services and resources centered around the JFS food pantry. On-site social workers assist people challenged with food, housing, employment and financial insecurity.
More information about KesherKC, JFS and donations is available at jfskc.org/ways-to-give.
