GIFFORD — With the start of the new school year rapidly approaching, individuals and businesses are doing their part to ensure all students start the year with spanking new supplies. This past weekend, the Gifford Youth Achievement Center and the Indian River County Housing Authority hosted separate events to engage families while giving out backpacks filled with age-appropriate items.
“Education is what? Education is RED HOT!” shouted Freddie Woolfork, Gifford Youth Achievement Center Director of Public Relations and Facilities Operation. The perpetual cheerleader for children was leading families in a cheer as they waited patiently in a long line at the GYAC Back to School Bash Saturday morning.
Upwards of 850 children, kindergarten to 12th graders from around the county, were given backpacks filled with much-needed school supplies, thanks to funding and materials from businesses, churches and numerous individual donors.
A constant flow of eager little ones and their parents filtered through the facility, guided by multitudes of volunteers lending a helping hand and contributing to make the process a positive experience.
In the gymnasium, other nonprofit agencies dispensed helpful information, and Mark Rendell, Indian River County’s new school superintendent, greeted the youngsters he calls his “customers.”
“I think this is fantastic. Several organizations came together to provide not only school supplies, but also access to services,” said Rendell. “I was pleased and excited that they came. Any time we can put books into the hands of our kids is a plus.”
The day before, the IRC Housing Authority hosted its second annual Back to School Family Fun Day for residents of their Orangewood Park and Victory Park Apartments. Funding for the event, which included waterslides and a bounce house, hamburgers and hotdogs, was provided by IRCHA managing agent Nelson Associated and PNC Bank, and approximately 150 backpacks were provided by Oculina Bank.
“This is encouraging kids to have a good school year; providing them with stepping stones to a better future,” said IRCHA board chairman Joe Idlette III.
“When you go to school, start studying and making those achievements, because they really do matter,” said Vero Beach Vice-Mayor Jay Kramer, who had come to give words of encouragement.
“Not everybody is as excited about going back to school, but just like that food cooking over there that will nourish your body, school is all about nourishing your mind,” said County Commissioner Joe Flescher. “Set yourself forward and do the right thing.”
Sheriff’s Deputy Richard Henson was a big hit with his K-9 partner Falko, a 2-year old German Shepherd/Belgian Malinois mix, who sat patiently as all the children came up to greet him.
“This day is presented with you in mind, and we hope that it is one that you will enjoy,” said Cassandra Green, IRCHA Executive Director. “We want to get you ready to go back to school. You have things to look forward to and to do that you’re going to have to work hard.”
