Girl Scout conducts school supply drive on behalf of low-income children

FRANKLIN — Project Self-Sufficiency’s annual school supply drive got a big boost from a local seventh grade student this year when Girl Scout Andi Kidd decided to use the drive to achieve her Silver Award.

The youngster is a member of Girl Scout Troop #897 in Franklin. The enterprising student organized a drive at the Franklin Borough School during the spring, and then followed it up with two stints outside of the local Wal-Mart. She also conducted a letter-writing campaign among area businesses. The effort raked in a whopping amount of supplies, from backpacks to pencils.

“I think education is valuable and having the right school supplies can enhance that,” noted Andi. “I know that I like being in school, and I want other kids to have that experience, too.”

Project Self-Sufficiency is still seeking donations of new school supplies for distribution to hundreds of children for the upcoming school year. New crayons, pencils, erasers, glue sticks, scissors, pens, spiral notebooks, and loose leaf paper would be deeply appreciated. Monetary donations to be used towards the purchase of supplies would also be gratefully received.

“Project Self-Sufficiency is proud to have been the recipient of Andi Kidd’s generosity this year,” remarked Deborah Berry-Toon, Executive Director of Project Self-Sufficiency. “The low-income families that we serve are often unable to afford new supplies for the school year. This remarkable undertaking will make a huge difference in the lives of many children as they embark on a new school year.”

Donations of new school supplies will be gratefully accepted at Project Self-Sufficiency through Wednesday, Aug. 20. The agency is located at 127 Mill Street in Newton. For information about making a donation, or to inquire about any of the programs and services available at Project Self-Sufficiency, call 973-940-3500 or visit www.projectselfsufficiency.org.