Help a Fellow Westporter with August Back to School Program

Westport's Back to School Program will run from Monday, Aug. 5 through Monday, Aug. 12, Human Services Director Barbara Butler announced earlier this month.

The program offers new backpacks and school supplies, as well as Athletic Shoe Factory and Payless gift cards, to income-eligible families with children in Westport, according to Butler.

“As another successful school year comes to a close, we’re beginning our preparations to ensure that all students start next year off on the right foot,” she said.

The Back to School program depends solely upon the generosity of community individuals and organizations.

Last year, 197 Westport students from 107 income-eligible families received back-to-school supplies as well as gift cards for a new pair of school shoes -- that number of students represents more than seven full classrooms. Butler expects that the number will grow even greater given the economy 

Donations at any level are greatly appreciated by the Westport Human Services Department, Butler said.

Tax-deductible monetary donations should be made payable to the Town of Westport/DHS Family Programs (memo backpacks), and mailed to Westport Department of Human Services, 110 Myrtle Ave., Westport, CT 06880.

Donations of new school supplies of all types, including backpacks (the larger the better), may be dropped off Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in Room 200 at Westport Town Hall.

In addition, gift cards of any amount to Staples, Target, Walmart, Old Navy, etc. "are very much appreciated," according to Butler.  

Families who feel they may qualify for this program are urged to contact the Department of Human Services at 203-341-1050. Residents who have questions regarding the program should contact Kevin Godburn at kgodburn@westportct.gov or 203-341-1155.