Going back to school each fall can be stressful for any child, but for those who must face the classroom without proper supplies or adequate clothing, the situation is especially daunting.
To provide underserved students in the St. Louis area with the tools they need to succeed, the National Council of Jewish Women’s (NCJW) St. Louis Section hosts a “Back-to-School! Store” each year where children can “shop” for free clothing and supplies.
At the store, 1,100 pre-selected children, ages four to ten, are given basic back-to-school necessities, such as an outfit, tennis shoes, underwear, a winter coat, a backpack, school supplies, personal care items, and a book. Additionally, children have access
to free vision and dental screenings, and their families are provided with information on child wellness.
I attended the Back-to-School! Store on July 21 and was impressed with the tremendous work done by the dedicated volunteers, individual sponsors, and local organizations that made the event possible. Since 2001, the store has served over 10,000 local children, and I commend the NCJW for its continued efforts to grow this vital community outreach.
Representative Sue Allen 