Supply Sacks program sees great response from communities
For years, Supply Sacks has been a constant presence providing school supplies for children in foster care.
On Friday, Oct. 4, a sizable collection of clothing, school supplies, toys, and toiletries was at the North Attleborough Town Hall, where State Rep. Betty Poirier thanked the many groups who had contributed. This included St. Mary’s Sacred Heart, Richards Memorial Library, Attleboro High School, Plainridge Park Casino, Falls School PTO, and the Bungee Lake Knitters, among others.
“It’s a wonderful thing for children to help other children who may be less fortunate,” said Poirier of the schools that donated.
Supply Sacks is a program run through Poirier’s office and dedicated to assist children who reside in foster care in North Attleborough as well as surrounding communities. The program gives a backpack filled with clothes and other basic necessities to every child that is newly entering local area Department of Children and Families.
Candice Gemski, Southern Regional Director of the Department of Children and Families, said social workers collaborate with doctors and teachers to provide a better home environment. She remembered a 5-year-old girl who hadn’t been able to take any of her things when she went into foster care. She received a My Little Pony backpack through a program like Supply Sacks.
“Her smile said it all,” said Gemski.
North Attleborough Veterans Agent Rebecca Jennings spent years in the foster care system, often spending no more than two months in a home. She said oftentimes foster kids don’t get to take much with them, and donations through programs like Supply Sacks make a big difference.
“Thank you for what you did,” she said.
