Northwest Assistance Ministries seeks donations for Back-to-School Drive

Northwest Assistance Ministries has raised less than $25,000 toward the $60,000 needed to fund its Back-to-School Drive to provide needy children with shoes, jeans and school supplies. NAM needs additional cash donations to pay for this successful program.

Supplies and clothing vouchers will be distributed to pre-screened families July 31. NAM helped students from the Spring, Klein, Aldine and Cy-Fair school districts last year with the support of donors like the Junior League of North Harris County.

“The start of school will be here soon and most families will think about their children returning to the classroom and the excitement of getting new school clothes and supplies,” said Carole Little, NAM executive director.

“For some families, though, fall is a time they have to choose between food and buying the things their children need to get an education. Youngsters whose clothes don’t fit and who don’t have pencils or paper have a difficult time learning.”

Educators say they can see the damaging impact low self esteem has on youngsters and their ability to succeed, Little said. For young people to start this school year feeling good about themselves and ready to learn, they need the required school supplies, new jeans and tennis shoes.

NAM is seeking cash donations rather than contributions of clothing or supplies, Little said. Cash donations enable NAM to buy items in bulk and at a discount so the dollars help more children. A $20 gift will provide schools supplies for one student. A $35 gift will provide clothing and shoes for one student and a $55 gift will provide supplies, clothing and shoes for one student.

“Education is a marvelous thing. You can’t really touch it or put your arms around it, but children have little chance of success without it,” Little said. “Education is an essential building block in breaking the cycle of poverty. Help us give these youngsters a shot at a brighter future.”

Donations may be sent to NAM, 15555 Kuykendahl Road, Houston, TX 77090 or call 281-885-4605 to contribute via credit card.

NAM is a nonprofit, community-based, multi-program social service agency consisting of 47 congregations, 16 affiliate civic organizations and numerous business partners. NAM has served north and northwest Harris County for 20 years. NAM is located at 15555 Kuykendahl. For information on NAM and its programs, call 281-885-4555 or visit NAM’s web site at www.namonline.org.