GREENSBORO, N.C. — According to the American Retail Federation, on average families will spend roughly $875 on school supplies this year. That’s about $15 less than last year. With the start of the new school year right around the corner, a Greensboro nonprofit is doing its part to help ease the financial burden.
Alana V. Allen is the founder and executive director of I Am A Queen. I Am A Queen is a nonprofit that works with young girls and teens on self-esteem and leadership development.
Saturday, August 3 the group will host its 16th Annual Back to School Drive. The goal is to serve over 700 kids.
“We’re going to give out school supplies with backpacks filled with paper, pencils, and crayons,” Allen said. “Families can expect to have a good time, show up on time, and we’re also going to make sure people are hydrated and have snacks. We’re so excited to be able to serve our community.”
The event is free and open to the community, and children can come in to receive school supplies. Allen said parents are encouraged to accompany smaller children to ensure the right school supplies are given and all children must be present to receive the supplies.
“When it comes down to this event, the grandmothers show up at 7 a.m. to get in line,” Allen said. “When you see the grandmothers get in line, that’s the most important piece about why we serve. It’s all about giving back to the community and making sure kids have what they need."
People from the community are encouraged to donate items. Items can be dropped off at Gents by Prestige Barber Shop on Spring Garden Street in Greensboro by Friday, August 2.
The donation list includes backpacks, colored pencils, crayons, folders, glue sticks, notebook paper, pencils, pens, and scissors.
“With I Am A Queen, it’s important because our mission says that we are trying to create community leaders and community pioneers,” Allen said. “Teen girls need to be able to give back and show other people how to give back, so it’s all about being an inspiration to others. Girls come into this program learning about leadership and self-esteem and just being who they are.”
The 16th Annual Back to School Drive is Saturday, August 3, in the gymnasium of the Windsor Recreation Center, located at 1601 E. Gate City Blvd., Greensboro, NC. Festivities kick off at 10 am until supplies last.