As summer comes to an end, we are reminded that school will soon be back in session. Iconic yellow school buses, classroom bulletin boards, and homework will replace trips to the beach, backyard camping and “sleeping in” every day.  Preparation for back to school is already in full effect. Teachers have begun putting together curriculum and parents are running to office stores with lists to fulfill of needed school supplies, both creating the zenith for optimal learning environments.

School supplies.

From backpacks to #2 pencils, shopping for school supplies can be expensive and for some financially stressful. So, what does that mean for young students experiencing homelessness?

The Homeless Children’s Playtime Project (HCPP) was founded in 2003 by social worker and child advocate Jamila Larson, and lawyer Regina Kline. Together they teamed up with concerned members of the community for a common cause, to establish weekly “playtimes” for up to 2 hours furnished with snacks and supplies for children experiencing homelessness. Now a deeply embedded organization is the DC community, Playtime Project has worked hard in seeking to help and create a city that provides every opportunity for homeless children to succeed.  This year’s Back to School drive does exactly that.

The Back to School drive with Playtime Project is providing young children, experiencing homelessness, the opportunity to go back to school with the right supplies.

For any child, going back to school can be stressful, but for children experiencing homelessness, it can be especially challenging getting all the supplies required by D.C. Public Schools.

-Playtime Project

This year, the Menkiti Group has teamed up with the Playtime Project to make sure every child is ready to go back to school! Serving as a drop off site from now until August 12th, the Menkiti Group Corporate office (3401 8th Street NE) is excited to collaborate with the community in achieving a goal of 80 donated STUFFED backpacks for children ages 3-6. Below we have included a complete list of needed supplies for stuffing backpacks. We are accepting donated backpacks during regular business hours (9am-6pm).

Let’s work together to reach this goal!

If you would like to read more about the Playtime Project’s Back to School drive, click HERE.

**Please Note: This year, Playtime Project will not be accepting loose items or school uniforms.