LAWRENCEVILLE, NJ — HomeFront is calling on community members to support its Back to School Drive, which provides backpacks, clothing and school supplies to more than 1,500 local children whose families are facing homelessness or poverty.
Community members can participate through August 5 by sponsoring a specific child or children, organizing a supply drive, or making a tax-deductible donation to HomeFront's Back to School Fund.
The organization said its approach goes beyond providing generic supplies. Volunteers shop from detailed wish lists — including children's favorite colors, themes and characters — so that each child receives items reflecting their individual personality and preferences.
"When the school year rolls around, I worry less about how I am going to get supplies for my son, thanks to HomeFront," said Iasia C., a HomeFront client who has received Back to School supplies for her son. "I am appreciative of the small act of kindness, and I hope that HomeFront can continue to help myself as well as many other families with the Back to School Drive."
The Back to School Drive is one of 35 programs and services HomeFront offers to help families in economic crisis, according to the organization. HomeFront said families experiencing poverty or homelessness often must prioritize essential expenses like rent, food, childcare and utility bills, making community support for school supplies especially important as costs rise. In addition to school-related items, the organization helps families access food, diapers, furniture and other essentials.
Those interested in sponsoring a child or hosting a supply drive can contact HomeFront at 609-989-9417 x112 or getinvolved@homefrontnj.org. Supplies can also be purchased online at bit.ly/hfschool26, and financial contributions can be made at homefrontnj.org/Back-to-School-Drive. All items should be dropped off by August 5 to ensure they reach families before the first day of school.
HomeFront's Donation Center is located at 1880 Princeton Avenue in Lawrenceville and is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon.
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