The generosity of the Hastings community helped 277 students living in Independent School District 200 begin the school year with everything needed to learn and be successful. Hastings Family Service coordinated the distribution of new backpacks and school supplies over several days in August. In addition to school supplies, all students received a coupon for a free clothing item at Rivertown Treasures and an ice cream cone to make the experience extra special.
According to Programs Director Amy Tix, “The number of students served this year is about equal to that of last year, demonstrating there is an ongoing and steady need in our community. We are grateful to be able to provide this service for families, especially at a time when the need for assistance programs across the board continues to grow.”
Not only do students receive supplies to get their school year off to a great start, but many families using the program indicate it greatly reduces their stress and anxiety. Beth indicates, “School supplies add up to a lot! This helps relieve some of the expense – that way we don’t worry where that money will come from.” And Samantha indicates that the program “... helps my child be prepared and less stressed to return to school.”
In addition to serving individual families, HFS distributed supplies to teachers at Pinecrest Elementary, McAuliffe Elementary, Hastings Middle School, Hastings High School, Pine Harbor Christian Academy, and St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic School to support student and classroom needs.
HFS extends a warm thank you to the many volunteers who helped facilitate the program, and to the faith communities, groups, businesses, families and individuals that collected and donated new school supplies or provided monetary support, including the annual Hastings Middle School Tug of War fundraiser.
School supplies remain available throughout the year for students and teachers in ISD 200. Call HFS at 651-437-7134 to learn more about this program.
View the HFS Gallery of Gratitude
