The 18th Annual School Supply Giveaway is happening Saturday, August 10th from 8:30am to 11:30am at the Granville Baptist Church, in Granville, NY. This free community event is open to all Pre-K through grade 12 students from Granville, Wells and Mettowee school districts.
PLEASE NOTE: The School Supply event is now complete. If you need child's school supplies please contact your school building to inquire.
Ann Schinski, a 25-year resident of Granville and healthcare professional, now residing in Wells, has been organizing the event in memory of her late husband Steve Schinski, known for his generosity and commitment to helping others.
“When I heard a colleague express how challenging it was to afford back-to-school supplies for her children, I had to do something,” said Ms. Schinski.
She initially raised funds from local businesses, organizations and families, providing supplies to 50 children in the first year. Now, the event has grown to accommodate over 400 backpacks and serves hundreds of students annually.
"This year, we've raised almost $4,000, all of which goes directly to school supplies. We've never run out, but if we do, we will ensure every student gets what they need." In addition to backpacks, the event offers a variety of school supplies from summer activity books to notebooks, crayons, colored pencils, filler paper, binders, folders, personal care items and more.
Ms. Schinski also expressed her gratitude for the community's generosity: "The Granville area is extremely generous. I send out 10 letters a year to raise funds, and the response ensures we have plenty of resources to support our local families and students."
Students and their caregivers will be let in 10 at a time to allow for ample time to select their school supplies and backpack. Items will be organized by grade level to make it easy and enjoyable to select items. Whether your child needs just a few items to fill in the gaps or more, Granville students and their families are welcome to attend.
The Granville Central School District thanks Ms. Schnick for contributing so generously with her time and energy to our school community and for being an example of seeing a challenge and finding a way to solve it.
The Granville CSD school supplies list by grade are here.
Tax-deductible donations are accepted throughout the year and can be sent to “The Backpack Project,” c/o Ann Schinski, 5075 Vermont Route 31, Poultney, VT 05764.
To send a thank you note to Ms. Schinski, mail to: 5075 Vermont Route 31, Poultney, VT 05764.