by Sylvia Blair

For many children, back to school includes shopping for school supplies and a new backpack, fun planning lunches and the excitement of getting a haircut and some new clothes. But for some children, this time of year comes with stress and frustration as financial hardship makes it difficult to afford supplies, clothes and services like haircuts.
Several local organizations try to make this transition less stressful for families facing financial challenges by providing back-to-school support. As part of your back-to-school shopping and preparation this year, consider adding a few more things to the shopping cart and support one of these local drives.

Boys & Girls Club of Westminster

71 E. Main St., Westminster • 410-386-0135
www.bgcwestminster.org
The School Supply Open House is intended for children who are members of the Boys & Girls Club of Westminster. The community is encouraged to donate items which can be used to fill backpacks.
Items Needed: Folders, glue sticks, scissors, paper, pencils and pens, rulers, items from CCPS-approved lists

The Shepherd’s Staff

Back-to-School Program
30 Carroll St., Westminster • 410-857-5944
www.shepstaff.org
The Shepherd’s Staff provides free school supplies to eligible students in pre-K through high school.
Items Needed: Composition books, glue sticks, pocket folders, scissors, pencil bags, pencil, pens, highlighters, colored pencils and crayons, dry-erase markers, three-ring binders, paper and tabbed dividers, index cards, sticky notes, backpacks, new or gently used clothing
Special Projects:
Coat Drive: September–November

Human Services Program

of Carroll County Inc.
10 Distillery Drive, Westminster • 410-386-6648
www.hspinc.org • Email: mperegoy@hspinc.org
Human Services Program of Carroll County supports children in shelter, housing and family stability programs. Participating families are encouraged to reach out to community organizations. When there is a gap, HSP helps with their back-to-school needs.
Items Needed: All school supplies, New or gently used clothing, New or gently used shoes
Special Projects:
“Share a Haircut” Program by Hair Cuttery for qualified children
Business/corporate fundraisers to benefit families in need of back-to-school assistance