The end of July is almost here! That means the start of school is just around the corner, and The Legacy Connection is helping children from around the Valley get ready. This past week the Backpack Buddies Project took over University Public School and transformed it into a back-to-school shopping center for underprivileged youth around the Valley. This is the third year that SVPAZ has invested in this heartwarming cause. We spent Wednesday morning as personal shoppers for several excited children.
Each new bunch of school children were welcomed by a round of applause from the entire gymnasium. Although they were initially hesitant of the friendly strangers in their company, as they shuffled from the shorts and skorts to the final stop at the bookstore, they slowly warmed to our company. Eventually students were running out of each station to show us what they had chosen, with ear-to-ear grins.
What is typically a school gymnasium became a bright start to the school year for hundreds of eager, young children. Smiles overflowed as children left with bags bursting with new clothes, school supplies and other essentials. As they completed their shopping rounds, the bags became so heavy they could hardly carry them, and quickly accepted our offer to carry them for the remainder of the morning. It was such a fantastic experience for all involved!
Thank you to our SVPAZ partners for contributing to worthwhile programs, such as this, that are truly impacting the lives of Arizona’s children.
Tags: Back to School, Backpack Buddies, Education, School Supplies, Volunteer Opportunity