Many families, we suspect, struggle financially more in August than in any other month, even December.
That’s because Christmas costs are variable, but there are certain things kids need when heading back to school.
Back-to-school costs aren’t limited to No. 2 pencils and wide-ruled notebook paper these days. Depending on the school, there can be long supply lists, as well as clothing, shoes and after-school care. For some, tuition means an even bigger cost.
However, we live in a generous community, and various organizations have stepped up to help. Trinity Lutheran Church & School held its first Day of Grace, an event providing school supplies and haircuts to students returning to class for the fall.
However, if you missed that, there are other opportunities, as we reported in Sunday’s paper:
• Jefferson City Area YMCA — Local YMCAs are accepting JCPS elementary school supplies and will provide them directly to the schools.
• Samaritan Center, 1310 E McCarty St., is distributing supplies to its clients through its food pantry, open 9:30-11 a.m. Monday through Thursday and 4-5:30 p.m. Thursday.
• Local McDonald’s restaurants have partnered with the Samaritan Center in a school supply drive. Through Friday, people who drop off school supplies at one of three McDonald’s restaurants in Jefferson City will receive a free small coffee or frozen beverage, limit one beverage per visit. Locations are 3124 S. Ten Mile Drive; 1425 Missouri Blvd.; and 815 Eastland Drive.
• Boys & Girls Club of Jefferson City, 1105 Lafayette St., is hosting a “Buzzes and Backpacks” back-to-school event 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday. Students will get haircuts, school supplies and clothes.
• The Oasis United Church of Christ, 2013 William St., is having a “Blessing of the Backpacks” during its 10 a.m. worship service Aug. 12. The event includes school supplies/backpack giveaways for families who need them.
We thank the many individuals and organizations who are providing help for needy families to get a good start to the 2018-19 school year.
News Tribune