July 31, 2008 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

SCHOOL SUPPLY DRIVE TO ASSIST AT-RISK CHILDREN

 Charlotte, NC – Thousands of at-risk students in Mecklenburg County will not be able to purchase the supplies they will need to return to school next month. County residents can help. 

The Mecklenburg County Department of Social Services (DSS) is holding its annual Back-to-School drive to collect supplies for needy children. The annual school supply drive is an effort to ensure that less fortunate children have the supplies necessary to begin the new school year. Anyone can donate. Last year, DSS assisted 1,442 at-risk children throughout the community. 

Here is a list of suggested items:

sturdy book bags
subject notebooks 
scissors
pocket folders 
rulers
pencils, pens, crayons 
ruled loose leaf paper
3 ring binders 
calculators
alarm clocks

If you are interested in participating, you may contact DSS by calling 704-336-4809 to make a donation. Items may also be dropped off at the Wallace Kuralt Centre reception desk weekdays from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. The Kuralt Centre is located at 301, Billingsley Road in Charlotte.