For the second year in a row, Court Advocates for Children partners with Jerrol’s and other community partners to run a Back-to-School supply drive to serve all school aged children in Kittitas County and raises over $2500 in donations as well as an overabundance of supplies.
ELLENSBURG, WA – Court Advocates for Children, a non-profit organization that supports and promotes court-appointed volunteer advocacy so every child who has experienced abuse or neglect can be safe, have a permanent home and the opportunity to thrive, hosted a back-to-school supply drive to provide backpacks and school supplies not only for the children they serve but all children in need in Kittitas County.
On any given day, there are nearly 75 children and youth in foster care in Kittitas County. Children who have experienced abuse or neglect are involved with multiple systems—the court system, the child welfare system, the health care system, and the school system. As a result, returning to school can be difficult and unpredictable.
“Last year we were completely blown away by the generosity in our community, so we were excited to continue the Back-to-School Drive this year,” said Audrey Higginbotham, Program Associate. “Jerrol’s and our other community partners have made this year’s drive such a success. We were able to provide all the children we serve with backpacks, lunchboxes, and school supplies. The community’s support also enabled us to expand our reach and help other families and children who needed help with backpacks and school supplies. We believe every student should feel confident and prepared for school.”
Court Advocates for Children hosted a Back-to-School supply drive to provide supplies to the children we serve and any child in need living in Kittitas County. The Team at Jerrol’s graciously offered to support this campaign again by promoting “Adopt a Local Student,” an opportunity for customers to fill a bag with school supplies for a child in need. Thanks to their support and generosity in our community, Court Advocates for Children collected an overwhelming amount of school supplies, backpacks, lunchboxes, water bottles, art supplies, and cash donations. Kittitas Valley Healthcare donated 120 backpacks and Law Enforcement of Kittitas County donated 25 filled backpacks from their Cop-on-Top event. Additionally, an extra thank you to Kittitas County Commissioners Office, Ellensburg Police Department, Gaylyn’s Salon, and Cle Elum City Hall for participating in this event as a drop off location. School supplies were distributed to all the children that Court Advocates serves, as well as APOYO, a local food bank, the Department of Children, Youth, and Families, the Compassion Closet, and schools throughout Kittitas County.
Back to School Drive Supporters:
