Free School Supplies for Dozens of Children

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 17, 2017

ARLINGTON, Va.  – Children from over fifty families will begin the school year with a free personalized backpack loaded with school supplies and a prayer card. Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Arlington (CCDA) will hold the school supplies giveaway for children ages five to 17, at 10 a.m. on Friday, August 25 at Christ House in Alexandria.

Here are the details:

What:              CCDA School Supplies Giveaway

When:             10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Friday, August 25

Where:            Christ House, 131 S. West Street, Alexandria, Virginia 22314

Ruth Guillen, Emergency Assistance Case Coordinator for the CCDA, came up with the idea last summer after witnessing so many families with school-age children without resources. She created a flyer requesting school supplies and handed it out to donors at the CCDA Christ House who donated food or clothing for the poor. She did the same thing this year (flyer attached).

Imran Gill, a maintenance worker, says he would not know what to do without the help of Catholic Charities. He lives in a one-bedroom apartment with his wife, mother and three school-age children.  “It is really hard for me to buy school supplies because I cannot afford it. Catholic Charities are like angels to us. I’m so grateful to them,” he says.

In addition to giving out backpacks filled with school supplies, CCDA employees and volunteers will provide snacks and refreshments for the children and their parents.

“I am so grateful to all those participating in the Catholic Charities school backpack giveaway,” remarked the Most Reverend Michael F. Burbidge, Bishop of Arlington. “This endeavor is a wonderful opportunity to assist those who need our support as a new school year begins. May we always help each other to carry the burdens we encounter in our daily lives. In doing so, we praise the Lord.”

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