News Summary
The LJD Jewish Family & Community Services is launching a school supply drive in Jacksonville to support low-income families for the upcoming school year. Running until August 1, 2023, the initiative asks community members to donate essential supplies, either in person or through an online wish list. Local organizations are also hosting events to assist families, with multiple opportunities to contribute, including backpack giveaways and wellness services. This collaborative effort underscores the community’s commitment to ensuring all children start the school year equipped with the necessary tools.
Jacksonville – The LJD Jewish Family & Community Services (JFCS) is organizing a vital school supply drive in Jacksonville, aimed at assisting low- to no-income families as they prepare for the upcoming school year. The drive will run until August 1, 2023, with the intent of providing essential school supplies to children who come from families struggling to afford basic necessities such as housing and food.
Community members are encouraged to participate by donating various school supplies. Donations can be dropped off directly at the JFCS building located at 8540 Baycenter Rd, Jacksonville, FL, or through an Amazon wish list specifically set up for the drive. This online option is particularly beneficial during the Amazon Prime Day event from July 8-11, allowing for easy accessibility for those wishing to contribute.
As the need for assistance continues to grow, JFCS reports a steady increase in the number of families seeking help each year. To further support this initiative, Action News Jax will partner with Family Focus for the “Tools for School” drive on August 1. This event will take place at the roundabout near Maggiano’s located at the St. Johns Town Center from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., where new school supplies will be collected.
In addition to the JFCS efforts, several other organizations in Jacksonville are hosting back-to-school events aimed at ensuring children have the supplies they need for their education. The Friends of Brentwood Library will be holding their 11th Annual Back 2 School Backpack Giveaway on August 3 at 10 a.m., with plans to distribute over 400 backpacks filled with essential supplies. Additionally, Tobacco Free St. Johns will conduct a Back-To-School Block Party the same day, offering free wellness services alongside school supplies.
August 10 will be a particularly busy day for back-to-school initiatives. Oceanway Church is set to provide free haircuts, groceries, and school supplies, while the 9th Annual Wegotchu Back to School Celebration at Willow Trail Apartments will supply attendees with free backpacks and food. Harvest Ministries has also scheduled a Back to School Bash on August 3, which will include community resources and school supplies.
Furthermore, Glorious Bethlehem Temple plans to distribute backpacks filled with supplies during its Sunday service on August 4. Elevate Life Church is set to host a back-to-school party on August 10, where families can receive free food and supplies. Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers will conduct a backpack and supplies giveaway at Twin Lakes Academy Elementary on August 10 as well, alongside Florida Prince Hall Masons, who will hold a giveaway including supplies and fun activities at 410 Broad St.
Supporting this collective effort is Walmart along with local partners, which are involved in the Pack the Sack 2024 initiative scheduled for August 3. This event aims to distribute 10,000 backpacks among other supplies to students in need. Additionally, First Coast News and United Way are collaborating on the annual Stuff the Bus school supply drive, with events planned for July 12 and July 19 in Duval and Clay counties, aimed at collecting supplies for students. Local businesses and organizations interested in contributing to Stuff the Bus can currently register to participate.
For those seeking alternative donation methods, contributions can also be made online through the United Way’s website or by texting CLASSROOMS24 to 30306.
The diverse range of school supply drives and events highlights the community’s commitment to supporting families in need as they prepare for the new school year. With numerous opportunities to donate, Jacksonville residents are encouraged to lend a helping hand to ensure that all children have the essential tools required for their education.
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Additional Resources
- WOKV: JFCS School Supply Drive
- Action News Jax: Tools for School Drive
- News4Jax: Back to School Events in Northeast Florida
- First Coast News: Stuff the Bus Event
- JDNews: Back to School Events in Onslow County
- Wikipedia: School Supply Drive
