Observer News Desk
More than 1,000 students received school bags, shoes, books and other supplies on Thursday as part of a back-to-school initiative organised by the Ministry of Social and Urban Transformation through the Social Protection Board.
The giveaway, held at the Rising Sun Grounds, attracted hundreds of parents and children, including beneficiaries of the Social Protection Board and members of the wider public.
The ministry said approximately 1,025 school bags were distributed, with every available bag collected. School shoes, books and other essential supplies were also provided to help students prepare for the new academic year.
Social Protection Board Operations Manager Mary Baltimore described the initiative as a success and said the organisation was pleased to help families meet the cost of preparing their children for school.
“We also had a great supply of shoes and books available, and I am especially pleased to say that every single school bag was distributed,” Baltimore said. “It was truly a successful and rewarding initiative.”
She said the support extended beyond material assistance because having the necessary school supplies could improve a child’s confidence and enthusiasm about returning to the classroom.
“Sometimes, something as simple as a school bag, a pair of shoes or a set of books can make a tremendous difference in a child’s life,” Baltimore said.
“As operations manager, I am extremely grateful and proud that the Social Protection Board was able to play a part in making a child happy and giving them a little more confidence and excitement as they prepare to return to school.”
Baltimore also commended the board’s employees, beneficiaries, members of the public, its chairman and others who contributed to the event.
“Today was a beautiful reminder that it truly takes a community to raise a child,” she said. “Together, we are helping to ensure that our children have the tools they need to start the new school year with dignity, hope and a smile.”
The giveaway forms part of the ministry’s continuing efforts, through the Social Protection Board, to assist vulnerable households, ease the financial pressure on parents and ensure children are properly equipped for the classroom.
The ministry and the board thanked everyone who supported the initiative and helped make it a rewarding experience for the children and families who attended.
Back-to-school Drive Equips 1,025 Students
