Nearly 400 students from Stanislaus County will be given a jump start for next school years thanks to the Hughson Family Resource Center. The HGRC is gearing up for its annual Backpack Drive to provide school supplies to children in need.

“Last year, together with our community, we helped 426 of these children by providing them with a new backpack containing the tools they need to succeed and we are anticipating an even larger request for backpack assistance this year,” said Bertie Areias, Hughson Family Resource Center board member.  “Through our combined efforts, we hope to equip even more children with the materials they need to start the school year off right.”

From June 10 to July 15, the HFRC will collect backpacks and school supplies and distribute them to students at Southeast Stanislaus County Schools. Schools that will receive supplies will be located in Hughson, Empire, Waterford, Hickman, Gratton, LaGrange, Roberts Ferry and Denair.

“Many of us remember going to the store with our parents and picking out a brand new backpack and supplies for the school year,” said Tanya Nichols, coordinator of HFRC Backpack Drive.  “With the current state of the economy, many parents just don’t have the money to buy the supplies their kids need to start the school year. That can be disheartening to the parent, but it can also be disheartening to the child. The HFRC wants to help those families help their kids have a successful year and monetary donations or a gift of backpack supplies for this project would help so much.”

Since 2004 the Hughson Family Resource Center has been serving communities of Southeast Stanislaus County. The Hughson Family Resource Center’s purpose is to prevent child abuse and family violence, reduce the effects of poverty and promote healthy lifestyles. 

For information on donating supplies, volunteering or making a monetary donation to help with the purchase of backpacks and supplies, contact the Hughson Family Resource Center at 883-2125.