New London Backpack Giveaway

Children Given Tools to Succeed

Through Backpacks and School Supplies
Northwest Hills Backpack Program

NORTHWEST HILLS – Many school-aged children from Torrington and Winsted now have the tools they need to return to school, ready to learn. Thanks to the Carlton D. Fyler and Jenny R. Fyler Fund and The Torrington Club Fund, both funds of The Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut, as well as other local generosity, 50 children through the Torrington Office and 130 children through The Salvation Army’s Winsted Regional Service Center were given backpacks and school supplies.

Northwest Hills Backpack Program

Throughout the towns served by The Salvation Army’s Northwest Hills, parents struggle to provide the necessary school supplies for their children. An increased need is not uncommon, as there has been a noticeable demand in all areas of social services. To address this particular need for school supplies, this location offers a Backpack Program. By offering backpacks and school supplies, The Salvation Army knows each year that over 150 children from Colebrook, Norfolk, Torrington, Winchester, and Winsted will be able to return to school prepared, without having to worry about the risk of ridicule or discomfort that could hurt their self-esteem. Instead, with increased confidence, these children can focus on excelling to their fullest potentials.

In order to participate, parents registered their children, providing requested documentation. Those who were determined eligible for the Backpack Program were then notified. Checking with area schools and parents helped The Salvation Army to determine what supplies to provide this year. Reflecting on the actual distribution, Captain René Jarvis-Hovatter, Northwest Hills Officer, said, "It was a joy to see the faces of the children as they received their backpacks and school supplies. Many were so excited to pick their favorite colors or styles. We could not have done this without the support of The Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut. Thank you to all who made this possible!"