Back to School Shop, Inc. provides economically disadvantaged elementary school children with brand new clothing and supplies for the start of school.
OUR MISSION
The mission of Back to School Shop, Inc. is to provide economically disadvantaged elementary school children in the Stamford, Connecticut community with brand new clothing and school supplies, to help build the confidence and enthusiasm they need for a successful start to the school year.
OUR PROGRAM
In an annual event prior to the start of school, children shop for new clothing and school supplies at no charge, in a pop-up store created just for them.
While children shop with volunteer personal shoppers, their parents and caregivers visit the Japha Family Resource Center to meet with representatives of local agencies who provide information about how to access critical community services.
WHAT EACH CHILD RECEIVES
Each child picks out a complete new outfit of clothing (shirt, pants, winter jacket and sneakers) plus underwear, socks, hat and gloves. They will also select a new backpack and fill it with school supplies and books. For many, this may be the first time they will have something brand new to call their own.
OUR IMPACT
Back to School Shop, Inc. served 250 children with 180 volunteers at its third annual event in July, 2017. Nearly 600 children have participated since the first event in 2015.
OUR ORGANIZATION
Back to School Shop, Inc. is operated as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization overseen by a Board of Directors. Members of the Board also manage all day-to-day aspects of the program on a volunteer basis. Being an-all volunteer organization allows virtually all funds donated to go directly to benefit Back to School Shop participants.
