On Monday, August 28, 2023, 27 volunteers of the WeLoveU Foundation delivered backpacks and essential school supplies to 237 students in John Barry Elementary School. It began with a phone call to the school’s principal a few months ago. Principal Kimberly Goldbach recalls how delighted she was to receive the call. She said it was an opportunity “she could just not pass up.” From that time on, WeLoveU volunteers collected supplies for the students by running work supply drives and visiting stores. Every year, the foundation begins planning for the Packs on Backs fall donations in May or June.

John Barry Elementary is located in Meriden, CT, and 100% of the student population is on free or reduced-lunch programs. Recent news reports show families with elementary through high school children plan to spend an average of $890, which is $25 more than last year’s record of $864. With climbing school supply prices, the Packs on Backs program was designed to support families during back-to-school shopping.

At the donation ceremony, the parents were overwhelmed with gratitude. Many families inquired more about the organization itself. All 237 present students received new backpacks and school supplies. To wrap up the ceremony, Principal Goldbach gave a message to the organization’s founder, Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah. For her 30 years of service and dedication to education, the principal said, “I know it has not been easy work, but it has definitely been meaningful for you. Thank you!”

In 2023, WeLoveU will donate backpacks and supplies to students in California, Colorado, Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, New Jersey, New York, Texas, and Washington, D.C.