Somerset Hills YMCA Partners with Bernards Township to Provide School Supplies to Nearly 50 Local Youth

Basking Ridge, New Jersey, September 9, 2026 – As children across the community prepared to return to school, Somerset Hills YMCA, a branch of Greater Somerset County YMCA, partnered with the Bernards Township Police Department to help ensure local youth had the supplies they needed for a successful start to the school year.

Throughout August, the Y hosted a back-to-school supply drive benefiting Accompany Now! with Jersey Cares, a local nonprofit that supports youth who have recently arrived in the United States without traditional family support systems.

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The Bernards Township Police Department will distribute the collected supplies to Umbrella's The Bag Project, a foster care initiative that provides essential items to children and youth experiencing crisis. The Bag Project supports children and youth during difficult transitions, including entering foster care or seeking refuge from unsafe home environments.

Together, the community collected backpacks and essential school supplies to support nearly 50 families and an estimated 80 to 120 children. Community members generously donated notebooks, pens, binders, crayons, markers and other classroom essentials, demonstrating the power of coming together to support children and families in need.

"Supporting children in our community as they prepare for the school year is central to our mission," said Washima Redding, Branch Executive Director, Somerset Hills YMCA. "We are grateful for the incredible generosity of our community and proud to partner locally to help equip children with the essentials they need to feel prepared, confident and ready to thrive."

To learn more about Somerset Hills YMCA and ways to support the Y's work in the community, visit gscymca.org/our-community/support-the-y/ways-to-give/.

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About Greater Somerset County YMCA
Greater Somerset County YMCA is a leading nonprofit committed to cultivating an inclusive and dynamic community where everyone can realize their unique potential. Through programs that foster healthy living, belonging, and personal growth, the Y empowers individuals and families to thrive. Learn more about our programs and financial assistance atwww.gscymca.org.