Swampscott-Based SPUR Launches School Supply Drive For 650 North Shore Students

SWAMPSCOTT, MA — The North Shore nonprofit SPUR has opened its Student Success Drive ahead of summer break, saying the need for back-to-school supplies starts now for hundreds of local children.

SPUR announced that the drive began today and is aimed at helping students in Lynn, Marblehead, Salem and Swampscott arrive on the first day of school with the supplies they need.

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More than 650 students in those four communities depend on the Student Success Drive to be ready to learn in the coming school year.

The organization said it works with school adjustment counselors, food pantry directors and other social service workers to identify students who would not otherwise have the tools they need for class.

SPUR said it partners with Staples in Vinnin Square in Swampscott to purchase wholesale brand-name supplies at a lower rate. The nonprofit said that approach helps ensure that each student begins the school year with the same items as classmates.

SPUR described the effort as going beyond notebooks, pencils and pens. The organization said the program is also intended to support students' dignity, confidence and sense of belonging by making sure they are fully prepared when school starts.

The announcement asks community members to contribute through SPUR's Sponsor a Student page here.