As the sweltering summer begins to subtly signal its end, Arizona gears up for the imminent return to classrooms. Terros Health is stepping up to the challenge, offering a helping hand to families feeling the financial squeeze of back-to-school preparations with free supplies in the Valley. "We know how expensive school supplies can be and how families may be struggling, so this is our way of giving back and helping the kids," Ray Young, senior director of external affairs at Terros Health, told AZFamily.
The outreach is part of a series of drives that allow students to select their backpacks and stock them with items such as snacks, crayons, pencils, and notebooks. Families had the opportunity to attend the first of these events today at Terros Health Stapley Health Center from 8 to 11 a.m., as per AZFamily. A follow-up event is scheduled next Friday at their 27th Avenue Health Center, aiming to alleviate the cost for parents as the school year looms nearer.
Not to be outdone, other local organizations are mobilizing resources to ensure students start the year off right. According to KGUN9, Lerner & Rowe is set to deliver 750 backpacks loaded with supplies at the Pima County Fairgrounds on July 19, fulfilling needs on a first-come, first-served principle. Students must be present to receive a backpack at this particular giveaway.
Meanwhile, TUSD IMPACT Tucson Family and Community Resource Fair offers more than just school supplies; they're providing a veritable experience with free backpacks, lunches, and entertainment at Palo Verde High Magnet School on July 27. And for those willing to lend a hand to teachers shouldering personal expenses for classroom supplies, Tucson Values Teachers has kicked off their annual Tucson Supplies Teachers drive. Donations for this cause can be tendered online, with registered teachers having a chance to snag $100 for educational resources, as detailed by KGUN9.
Another back-to-school drive, Salvation Army's S.O.S., in collaboration with Fry's Food Stores, simplifies giving by setting up convenient drop-off locations up until July 28. For Southern Arizona foster youth, Aviva Children’s Services runs an ongoing annual effort to gather backpacks and various needed supplies.
