Drop Off Donations Through Aug. 16

The Somerset County Commission on the Status of Women (SCCSW) has launched its annual “Project First Class” school-supplies collection.  Children of families served by the Food Bank Network of Somerset County will benefit from the donations.

Although any types of school supplies will be welcome, the children are most in need of backpacks – even gently used ones – as well as new notebooks, three-ring binders, paper, highlighters, markers, pens, pencils and crayons.

Donations may be dropped off to the Somerset County Freeholders’ Office on the third floor of the county administration building at 20 Grove St., Somerville, now through Aug. 16.  The office is open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.  Free parking is available in the adjacent Bernie Field Parking Deck off East High Street.

“Families are still struggling as a result of Hurricane Sandy and the economy in general, and school supplies are out of reach for many,” said Freeholder Mark Caliguire, commission liaison.  “We hope that individuals, organizations and businesses will support Project First Class and help these kids get off to a good start in school this fall.”

The SCCSW serves as an advisory board to the Board of Chosen Freeholders to address present and potential needs of women and to develop a greater public awareness of women’s issues.

Project First Class co-chairs are Commission members Jane O’Donnell and Kacey Dyer.  For more information, contact Jane O’Donnell at (908) 234-9302