Back-To-School Backpacks Ready For Distribution

By Larissa Lytwyn

The Newtown Junior Woman’s Club recently culminated its sixth annual back-to-school backpack program, distributing approximately 120 brand-name backpacks and supplies, including pencils, pens, notebook paper, binders, and more, to economically disadvantaged local children in grades K–12.

“We have more of a demand every year,” said Anna Wiggers, chair of the Backpack Committee for the fourth consecutive year. “Children are immediately eligible if their families receive some form of public assistance,” she said. “Anyone who wants to sign up for the program should contact [social services] to participate.” School officials send the club lists of needed supplies, including report covers and notepads.

Club member Christina Grabowski said that in addition to Newtown’s public schools, the club also serves children in the town’s alternative education systems. Supply gathering, she said, entailed great effort from the entire Newtown community. “We hold several fundraisers during the year,” she said.

Past fundraisers, said Ms Wiggers, include Bubblemania, a science show held last January. In addition, the club held its first annual golf tournament August 18. The $135 registration fee promised a golf-filled morning and eligibility for a number of tournament prizes and raffle gifts, as well as the enjoyment of a buffet-style lunch.

“There is a lot of support throughout the community, and throughout the club,” noted club member Terry Gould. Ms Gould’s children Michael and Christina, as well as Ms Wiggers children, Jordan and Devon, also participated in helping to fill, label, and count the backpacks.

In addition to donations from local businesses, both independent and corporately owned, Ms Wiggers said that a lot of funds were contributed from private donors, many of whom wished to remain anonymous. Ms Wiggers, Ms Gould, Ms Grabowski, and the rest of the Backpack Committee spent the last few weeks purchasing the backpacks and supplies from online stores and other venues.

“Backpacks cost around $25,” said Ms Wiggers. “And that’s often the amount we get from donors.” In addition to monetary donations, the club has received boxes of writing utensils, toiletries, and other items.

Anyone wishing to contribute to the Backpack Program can send a check to the Newtown Junior Woman’s Club, PO Box 217, Botsford, CT 06404. For more information about the back-to-school backpack program or other club-sponsored activities or membership, contact Ms Wiggers at 270-8208.