Back to School

 

A long time ago, my dear relative, a teacher in a school district with many disadvantaged families, suggested that people with grown children might consider purchasing a backpack and filling it with supplies for a child whose family would find this to be financially burdensome. I recognized this as a brilliant idea and for many years, I'd drive out to Lancaster County (always a pleasure for many reasons), backpack in tow, meet Susan for lunch, hand over the backpack, and return home. I might or might not have indulged in a bit of retail therapy at one of the many fabric shops.

I used to go to Staples early in August and pick out everything my imaginary high school girl might need. That part was almost as much fun as the lunch with Susan or the stop at TOCS.

Alas, a few months ago, my niece retired. So I went to the office of my local elementary school, firmly situated in a middle class neighborhood to see if there was a need. A few days later I got a phone call from the school's social worker. She said she'd received a request from a family with two children and would I consider doing two? I said I could do one and she said there was a first-grade girl who could use my help. Over lunch, I told Himself about the call and both of us got to thinking about that girl's second-grade  brother and so after lunch I phoned my sister who was happy to take on the cost of outfitting him if I'd do the shopping.

I consulted the school's list of demands [very specific] suggestions and couple of hours later my bank account was diminished by $215.11 (ye gods!) and I felt happy that whatshername and her brother wouldn't be singled out as they started their new adventures.

Here Near Philadelphia school starts in precisely eleven days; I know that in many areas the doors have already opened. Lunches, and sometimes breakfasts, will be provided for kids from food-insecure families.  But how will these children be able to learn if they don't have the basic equipment? I'm thankful that both Bonnie and I are in a position to be able to do this. Maybe you are, too? It's probably not too late.