Hoboken Students Receive Back to School Supplies from Assemblyman Garcia

The new school year is starting off on a bright note for Hoboken students who participated in a Back to School event on Wednesday Sept. 3. Just in time for the start of a brand new school year, these lucky youngsters received a host of free school supplies from Assemblyman Carmelo G. Garcia and Hoboken 2nd Ward City Councilwoman Beth Mason, founder of the Mason Civic League. The goal of the event, co-hosted by the Hoboken Housing Authority Resident Advisory Board/Tenant Association, is to make sure all children, regardless of their family’s income, are prepared for school.

“School supplies can be an expense some low income parents just can’t afford, “said Assemblyman Carmelo G. Garcia (D-Hudson). “By distributing basic items to area students we’re giving them the tools they need to excel in school. And we’re giving their parents or guardians the peace of mind of knowing their child is prepared for the new school year.”

A recent online report by NBC News revealed the increasing costs for school supplies and the financial burden this has placed on middle and low income families. The news report looked at data from an annual survey conducted by Huntington Bank that showed a backpack and school supplies for a middle-school student this year will run parents about $312, up more than $100 from last year. For high school students, the tab is $350, up from $330 last year.

“Tight school budgets have shifted the costs for school supplies directly to parents, caregivers, and teachers, “said Garcia. “We have to share the burden and do our part. This event is one of many ways I strive to live up to my moto “we can, we will, watch us make a difference.”