Chamber Collecting Supplies for 'Tools for School' Drive

From the Prince William Chamber of Commerce: 

The Prince William Chamber of Commerce encourages members of the public to participate in its “Tools for School” supply drive, which provides back-to-school essentials to area children in need. 

Now through Aug. 17th, new school supplies such as binders, backpacks and glue sticks can be brought to drop-off sites throughout the Prince William/Manassas area. Sites include a number of area businesses, along with the Chamber Headquarters at 9720 Capital Ct., Suite 203 in Manassas and any Chamber event or meeting.  

For a full listing of drop-off sites and needed supplies, or to purchase supplies online, visitwww.pwchamber.org, and click the “Tools for School” button on the homepage. 

On the website, a backpack fully-stocked with back-to-school basics can be purchased for around $20 and businesses wishing to serve as drop-off sites can register and get step-by-step instructions for a successful drive.  

The Chamber will then work with community partners including ACTS, SERVE (the Manassas Campus of Northern Virginia Family Services) and the Salvation Army to distribute the supplies to students in PrinceWilliam County and the Cities of Manassas and Manassas Park. 

On the importance of the drive, Frances Harris, Executive Director of ACTS said, “Families in our homeless shelters are already behind the curve because they have lost their housing and may have debts they are trying to pay to get back on their feet.  Having the proper school supplies allows their children to feel one less stress as they deal with homelessness and trying to fit in with their classmates.” 

“…We are grateful for generous donations from the Prince William Chamber and community to ensure all low-income children return to school this fall with the supplies they need for a successful year,” said Cheri Villa, NVFS Chief Operating Officer. 

Tools for School is one of many projects undertaken by the Chamber’s Education Committee.  The group also oversees National Young Readers Day activities, a Winter Warm-UP clothing drive, Student Speed Networking and other programs that enhance education for local students.  Supporting education is one of the ways that the Prince William Chamber works to nurture a thriving business environment and high quality of life in greater Prince William. 

“Through the Tools for School drive, we are able to send children an important message—that we care about their education.  This message of support has the potential to become a turning point in a child’s academic career and future success,” said Rob Clapper, Chamber President & CEO. 

Minnieland Academy is the Chamber’s Education Vision Partner.  To learn more about the Tools for School drive and other community outreach activities of the Prince William Chamber, visit www.pwchamber.org or call 703.368.6600.