More than 130 schools will receive backpacks with supplies for their students who need them most 

[Orlando, FL] June 29, 2021 – Backpack deliveries to more than 130 Central Florida public schools have already begun in preparation for the new school year this fall. The second year of The Great Big Backpack Build, presented by the Walt Disney World Resort, safely brought together more than 230 volunteers over the course of three weeks to build 15,000 backpacks with essential school supplies. Funded by generous local businesses and supporters, this community giveback project by A Gift For Teaching aims to ensure local children begin the new school year prepared and excited to learn by outfitting teachers with backpacks and supplies for their students who need them most, all at no cost.  

 

“We’re so inspired to see our Cast Members come together to provide Central Florida students and teachers with supplies to help them succeed in the year ahead – both inside and outside the classroom,” said Tajiana Ancora-Brown, director, Walt Disney World External Affairs. “Our Cast Members aren’t just VoluntEARS – they’re also parents, students and community members in these same schools, and they understand what an important impact these contributions make in starting the school year on the right foot.” 

 

The first day of school is a special day to a new beginning with new teachers and new friends. But thousands of Central Florida students will arrive on the first day with nothing in their hands to be excited about. Public school teachers in Orange and Osceola counties shared that having access to materials like pencils and paper, even in a digital learning environment, have a tremendous impact on their students’ attendance, achievement, self-esteem, and interest in learning. 

 

“As families continue to heal and financially recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, access to essential school supplies is still considered a luxury – yet it is a necessity for the academic success of our community’s future leaders,” says Jane Thompson, president of A Gift For Teaching. 

 

A Gift For Teaching hopes to continue growing The Great Big Backpack Build as Orlando’s ultimate community giveback project to help fulfill their vision of every student having the tools they need to succeed. To become a supporter to help fund and build backpacks for brighter futures next summer, please contact Marisa Worley, Director of Development and Marketing, at marisa@agiftforteaching.org.  

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