Sarah Heath, Director of the Westport Department of Human Services, announced today that the Town’s 2016 “Back to School Program” will start Monday, August 8 at Westport Town Hall, 110 Myrtle Avenue.

This program offers gift cards to income-eligible families who have children in the Westport schools. Families can then purchase new backpacks and school supplies together. The Salvation Army also provides a limited number of Payless gift cards so children can start the school year with a new pair of shoes.  The Back to School program depends solely upon the generosity of community individuals and organizations. Last year, 152 Westport students from 102 income-eligible families received back to school supplies as well as gift cards for a new pair of school shoes. That represents almost 8 full classrooms of students.

Donations at any level are greatly appreciated. Tax-deductible monetary donations made payable to “Town of Westport/DHS Family Programs” (memo: Back to School) may be mailed to Department of Human Services, 110 Myrtle Avenue, Westport, CT 06880. Gift cards of any amount to Staples, Target, Walmart, Old Navy, etc. are appreciated as well and may be dropped off Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM in Room 200 at Westport Town Hall.

Families who feel they may qualify for this program are urged to contact the Department of Human Services at 203-341- 1050. If you have questions regarding the program, please contact Elaine Daignault or 203- 341-1050.

Department of Human Services Press Release made possible by: