Two local nonprofits expect to provide school supplies to almost 3,000 low-income students through their respective back-to-school events.
Sunnyvale Community Services held its first Drive-Thru Backpack Day last year in keeping with COVID-19 restrictions. The nonprofit is holding its second drive-through event Monday, Aug. 2, 8 a.m.-6 p.m.
Clients can drive into Sunnyvale Community Services’ parking lot at 725 Kifer Road to pick up gift cards for backpacks and school shoes, along school supplies. These items are placed in vehicles’ trunks.
The nonprofit’s staff is looking to provide supplies for 1,600 local students in need. To donate, visit https://svcommunityservices.org.
West Valley Community Services was expecting an uptick in participation in its July 30 Back-to-School event. The nonprofit serves clients in Cupertino, Los Gatos, Saratoga, Monte Sereno and West San Jose.
“We have been doing this program for many years, but this year we have more than 280 children signed up to participate,” WVCS Executive Director Josh Selo said in a statement. “Over the course of the last year, we have experienced a significant increase in demand for food and rental assistance. Many families participating in the Back-to-School program this year have faced income and job loss due to the pandemic.”
Santa Clara County Supervisor Joe Simitian helped sponsor this year’s event, securing a $5,000 allocation from the county to help WVCS purchase additional school supplies and gift cards for distribution.
Participants will also receive information about how to access county services like CalFresh, MediCal health insurance and rental assistance programs.
The “Back to School” event is set for July 30, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., at the De Anza College Visual and Performing Arts Center, 21250 Stevens Creek Blvd., Cupertino. Registration is closed, but clients in need of this program who have not yet registered can email the event coordinator Anh Nguyen at specialprograms@wvcommunityservices.org.
Source: The Mercury News