Mary Nelson's Youth Center is expecting 20,000+ students needing school supplies. She's looking for donations by her August 18th.
The need is staggering, and not just in Syracuse's poorest neighborhoods. Last year, the Mary Nelson Youth Foundation served over 20,000 students who needed help with school supplies. This year, they expect even more.
Mary Nelson tells us the story of a little girl who wanted one pencil, to break in three pieces so her siblings could have part of it.
Nelson says she wants all children to have pencils, and more. This year, she's collecting, and hopes to have enough sneakers to give out to needy students, as well as the basic back to school notebooks and writing equipment.
Nelson's 'shopping/giveaway' event is set for August 18th, at South Salina and Wood Avenue. It starts with a youth parade, then the back pack giveaway, then a family barbeque. Before then, she needs donations of supplies, to have available. And, she says, it's not just Syracuse South Side students and their families who are invited, or who need help---the event is open to all Central New Yorkers.
For more information on donations, or to sign up to receive supplies: www.youthdaybarbecue.com
