New Destiny FSC’s success story for the month of August reflects the importance of partnership in times of need. As the school year approached, parents and caregivers were concerned about getting school supplies, including backpacks. According to the Lending Tree survey, “31% of shoppers with kids younger than 18 say they can’t afford some school supplies this year.” Moreover, they stated that most parents will have to acquire debt to purchase school supplies (https://nj1015.com/most-parents-are-stressed-out-about-paying-for-back-to-school-shopping/). New Destiny started receiving calls regarding backpacks and school supplies as early as July. When registration opened, two hundred parents registered! Even with this excessive number of requests, more called to sign-up closer to the date of the event. Through the generous funding awarded to New Destiny from the Community Based Child Assault Prevention (CBCAP) initiative, partnerships with local CBO’s, and churches, New Destiny FSC provided backpacks and school supplies to 654 children! Parents and children enjoyed a back-to-school event full of fun and games such as giant Jenga and Connect 4. Ice cream was also given out to all parents and children!! Moreover, other resources provided to parents included Parent handbook cards. These cards contained a QR code that took them directly to a PDF document, where parents could read about their rights in their school systems. It was made available in English and Spanish. Parents were excited to know that there was a document they could refer to when presented with an issue or a question. The staff and volunteers were also available to assist any parent/caregiver that had questions. Covid19 educational materials were available to all on site. Overall, the back-to- school event was a success! Partnerships, donations, and the arduous work of all staff and volunteers made this event one of the most successful in-person special events this year. Concrete services were provided, social connections were made, and families bonded with their children. Bringing HOPE during uncertain times brings joy to New Destiny. Thanks to CBCAP, our partners, donors, volunteers, and staff, the Back-to-School Event of 2022 brought relief and happiness to families that have been negatively impacted by the current recession.
