Schools
Back To School: East Orange Businesses Show Community Spirit
East Orange students got a friendly boost from a barbershop and a mother/daughter business team who own several McDonald's restaurants.
EAST ORANGE, NJ — The East Orange community came together for a big, back-to-school sendoff this week, including a pair of heartfelt donations from local business owners.
On Sunday, the mother/daughter pair of Celest and Jessica Quintana hosted their eighth annual back-to-school event at their McDonald’s restaurant on Central Avenue in East Orange.
The pair – who own several other McDonald’s locations in New Jersey – offered local kids free backpacks, haircuts, manicures and school supplies. Entertainment was also provided, and the event attracted visits from Councilman Casim Gomez and Councilman Bergson Leneus.
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“It’s an honor to provide children in the East Orange community with the tools they need to succeed in the upcoming school year – both in school supplies and self-confidence,” Jessica Quintana said.
“This event is a way for us to celebrate education, encourage children in our community to foster a love for learning, and engage the overall community to care for one another,” she added.
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Councilman Gomez called the event “inspiring” and said he was glad to attend.
“Every student should start the year off with confidence, and I’m proud to be a part of a community that works together to make sure all students are equipped for academic success,” Gomez said.
FREE HAIRCUTS FOR YOUNG SCHOLARS
Earlier this week, Dwayne "Rock" Scovil and the barbers at Scovil's Barbershop offered free, back-to-school haircuts for students returning to class.
According to East Orange city officials, students also got a chance to hear some words of encouragement as they head back into the classroom from guest speakers including Councilman Christopher Awe, Councilwoman-elect Brittany Claybrooks, Superintendent Kevin West, The Nobles of Golconda Temple No. 24, and members of the East Orange fire and police departments.
>> Back-To-School Essentials 2019: Backpacks, Laptops And Supplies
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