Throughout the summer months, Jersey Cares works alongside corporations, schools, and individual volunteers to prepare for the upcoming school year. Each year, thousands of New Jersey children attend their first day of school without basic educational tools such as backpacks, notebooks, and calculators, leaving these under-resourced students at a disadvantaged as they struggle to succeed academically. It can be extremely difficult for families to purchase new supplies year after year. With a goal to eliminate that struggle for families and students across New Jersey, Jersey Cares works to ensure that no child starts the school year off without the necessary supplies – bridging the gap between disadvantage and academic success. Volunteers are needed to help Jersey Cares reach their goal of donating 5,000 packed backpacks to schools, shelters, and community organizations across the state. Donating is easy and can even be done from the comfort of your home through their Amazon Wish List or online with YouGiveGoods.

The Jersey Cares School Supply Drive runs until August 21st. All donation can be delivered or shipped to their office in Livingston. If your office, club, or group of friends would like to host a collection drive, please visit the Jersey Cares website at www.jerseycares.org/School_Supply_Drive for more information.

Jersey Cares, a nonprofit organization, established in 1993, recruits and engages volunteers in rewarding, effective efforts that address community-identified needs. They partner with local nonprofits to identify needs and implement volunteer projects to meet these needs providing individuals, families, corporate employees and community groups with a wide variety of rewarding volunteer opportunities.