Drop Off Donations Through Aug. 11

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 Monday, Aug. 11.  The office is open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., except July 4.  Free parking is available in the adjacent Bernie Field Parking Deck off East High Street.

“For many families that are struggling to make ends meet, school supplies are out of reach,” said Freeholder Patricia Walsh, commission liaison.  “We hope that individuals, organizations and businesses once again will support Project First Class and help these children get 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.

For more information, contact Commission Chair Jane O’Donnell at (908) 234-9302.