Alexis Safo-Agyeman, a coordinator of East Hartford's Back to School Rally, says the event was about a lot more than the delivery of new backpacks and other school supplies to excited students:
"It's about providing families with resources. Holistically, we have to think about families that need medical, health, wellness... So, to have our community resources out here talking directly to the families while supporting the students with backpacks-- it's everything that they need to be successful this school year."
Hundreds of students and parents came out to the event on a sunny late Wednesday afternoon on the East Hartford Town Green. Community partners including East Hartford Youth Services took part, and Griffin Hospital was on hand giving out COVID-19 vaccines.
The donated backpacks come packed with typical school supplies such as crayons, markers, pencils, pens, highlighters, notebooks and folders. They're items that are much appreciated in a community where not everyone can afford the basics.
"It shows that people are giving things to kids that need it," said Amanda Love, who's starting high school this year.
Safo-Agyeman said it's a feel-good event, held in person for the first time since the start of the pandemic:
"Who doesn't want the sense of belonging? This gives them that sense of belonging."
East Hartford Public Schools open in two weeks, on Aug. 24.
