More than 1,000 students received school supplies during a back-to-school giveaway organised by the Ministry of Social and Urban Transformation through the Social Protection Board.

The event, held at the Rising Sun Grounds on Thursday, drew parents and children who received school bags, shoes, books and other items ahead of the new academic year.

The Board distributed about 1,025 school bags, along with a large quantity of shoes, books and other school essentials. All available bags were collected during the event.

Social Protection Board Operations Manager Mary Baltimore described the initiative as a success, saying the assistance would help ease some of the financial pressure on families preparing for the new school year.

She said providing basic school supplies could also boost children’s confidence and enthusiasm as they return to the classroom.

Baltimore thanked the Board’s staff, beneficiaries, members of the public, chairman and others who contributed to the initiative.

The giveaway is part of the Ministry’s efforts to support vulnerable households and help ensure children have the necessary supplies to begin the school year.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: Ministry’s Back-to-School Initiative Supports 1,025 Students.