Support Needed for Children’s Back-to-School Supplies, Afterschool Programing

Press Release

Human Services Family Program Coordinator Annette D’Augelli announced today that the Department is seeking community support for Children’s back-to-School and after-school needs. 

Ms. D’Augelli said, “With the 2021 school year fast approaching, Westport's Annual Back-to-School Program offers hope to local families who lack the financial means to purchase back-to-school supplies and provide reliable after-school childcare for their children. “

She continued, “In the wake of the pandemic, the Town of Westport's Department of Human Services (DHS) sees an increasing number of families seeking services.  Our parents and children have endured distance learning, unstable employment, social isolation, and mental health challenges.   Many households are experiencing un- and under-employment, increased housing expenses, and food insecurity, affecting the health and wellness of children whose parents are having trouble affording essentials for their families.”  

“Ordinarily, the Back-to-School program provides basic school supplies to lessen the financial burden on families struggling to make ends meet. The post-pandemic Back-to-School program requires more than backpacks, pens, and pencils.  Community donations will help to reinforce a child's sense of hope and stability by ensuring that they have the tools they need to excel in school and have opportunities to participate in after-school activities so their parents can focus on getting back to work.”

“Kids thrive when they have predictable routines to practice, explore, and problem-solve in a safe environment among their peers.  Hundreds of Westport families lack sufficient resources to provide their kids with enrichment opportunities to discover new interests and expand possibilities for their future. 

Human Services relies on the generosity of neighbors to help income-eligible families prepare and excel each school year. Thanks to the community's generosity, recipient families will share in the excitement of back-to-school shopping. They may also qualify for financial aid to attend an after-school program - opportunities that they would not have otherwise been able to enjoy.”

“Imagine how difficult it is to have to choose between paying for groceries, the utility bill, or your child's back-to-school supplies.  School supply shortages are likely this season, with fewer discounts on back-to-school items due to low production and cost inflation.”

Tax-deductible donations, in the form of cash or gift cards (Staples, Target, Walmart, etc.),  will ensure that children have back-to-school supplies and opportunities to play, explore and grow through extra-curricular activities.  100% of all donations benefit families directly.

Westport Human Services' donation portal is called “We Care Westport.” Donations are gratefully accepted online at www.westportct.gov/donate click on “Family to Family Programs - Seasonal Program – Back to School.” Contributions are also accepted by mail with checks payable to the “Town of Westport/DHS Family Programs,” at 110 Myrtle Ave Westport, CT  06880.  

If you or someone you know requires assistance, please call 203-341-1050 or email humansrv@westportct.gov to speak confidentially with a social worker.