Students around Southeast Louisiana are preparing to start the 2021 academic school year very soon. While starting school may be exciting, it can also impose stress on many families that are still suffering from the consequences of the pandemic. To help provide some stress relief as the new school year begins, WDSU is partnering with the United Way of Southeast Louisiana, Cox, Walmart, and Mr. NOLA's Glitter to host the second annual Student Connection School Supply Drive.
Over 5,000 backpacks filled with free school supplies will be given away to students in need. With the help of WDSU and their partners, the number of backpacks has nearly doubled from last year, giving even more children the opportunity to receive a free backpack.
"As so many of our families have faced unforeseen challenges over the past year and a half, WDSU is committed to doing our part to help in the purchase of school supplies for thousands of families in need. We are also incredibly thankful for our community partners Cox, Walmart, and Mr. NOLA Glitter, who all are just as dedicated to helping ensure that every student has the ability to succeed in these very challenging times," WDSU President & General Manager Joel Vilmenay said.
The school supply drive will be held at the United Way of Southeast Louisiana, located at 2515 Canal St., where their volunteers will be distributing the backpacks on a first-come, first-serve basis. Both drive-thru and walk-up options will be available at the United Way to allow for safe pick-up.
Upon arrival, parents will need to have a Louisiana ID, as well as a SNAP card or Social Security Award Certificate to receive a free backpack. The drive will run from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., or while supplies last, on Saturday, August 7.
For
more information, please visit wdsu.com.
