Cityteam seeks supplies for Back to School party Aug. 19

CHESTER » For most kids, it is far too early to start thinking about back to school, but not for parents worried about providing the necessary supplies.

Cityteam Chester will be distributing filled backpacks to registered families for students pre-K (age 4) through 12th grade at its 24th annual Back to School block party, to be held 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Aug. 19 at the basketball courts, Seventh and Penn streets. The day will include food, games, music and a bike raffle.

The organization provided 2,160 backpacks last year to youngsters in the city and surrounding area and is hoping to increase that number to 2,200 for 2017 through donations from local businesses, churches and individuals.

The organization is in need of supplies and financial contributions. A gift of $35 will provide a new backpack filled with grade-appropriate items, lunch and activities at the event. Donors also have the option of signing a backpack tag and adding a personal note of encouragement.

Although registration has ended, families can receive a wait list backpack by completing the necessary paper work at Cityteam, 634 Sproul Street. Clients must bring a photo ID and proof of age for each child, such as a birth certificate, and will then be given an admission ticket for the event.

The program is an essential way in which the mission invests in the lives of families. Students who grow up in poverty are seven times more likely to drop out of school and the backpacks help them overcome the hurdles by starting the school year ready to succeed.

For more information, call 610-8726865 or visit www.cityteam.org.