OVER 800 students in the communities served by J Wray & Nephew Limited received essential back-to-school supplies to ensure a smooth start to the new academic year.

The initiative, undertaken by JWN Foundation (JWNF) — the philanthropic arm of the organisation — provided students with essentials such as backpacks, pencils, erasers, rulers, pens, and notebooks.

JWNF Director Marsha Haughton said giving back through the initiative is important because it supports students’ academic success by providing necessary supplies.

“This is an awesome initiative. These students will have all the necessary essentials to start back the school year,” Haughton is quoted in a release.

She noted that giving back also fosters a stronger sense of community and instils valuable character traits like empathy, responsibility, and civic engagement in young people.

“This form of community giving helps bridge economic gaps; empowers students to achieve their potential; and creates more well-rounded, engaged future citizens,” she added.

Donna Le Kerr, long-time JWNF volunteer, said she was happy to support an initiative that’s very important because it provides direct support to students in need, helps schools with limited resources, and fosters personal growth and empathy in volunteers.

“It strengthens communities by ensuring more children have the necessary tools to succeed; creating a more equitable educational system; and cultivating responsible, socially aware citizens,” Le Kerr said.

Karen Dawkins, administrative assistant at Maxfield Park Children’s Home — one of the beneficiaries of this year’s initiative — expressed gratitude for the donation.

“This year’s donation of school supplies was both timely and greatly appreciated. It has helped us reduce costs for our back-to-school preparations. We are truly thankful for the continued support from the JWN Foundation,” she shared.

Meanwhile, Kizzy Lamey, 2024 JWNF Volunteer of the Year, was in high spirits as she and other volunteers assisted in packaging the school supplies for the students.

“Even essential items like backpacks, notebooks, and pencils can add up quickly, becoming a significant financial burden for many families, particularly those with multiple children or limited incomes,” Lamey said.

Many families, she said, struggle to afford other necessities, leaving little or no room in their budgets for school supplies. Lamey said she was elated that the foundation was able to assist so many students.

“When the JWNF assists students, they ensure that all students, regardless of their family’s financial situation, have the basic tools they need to start the school year on a positive and equitable footing. Students without the necessary supplies are at a disadvantage compared to their peers who are fully equipped,” she said.

Kizzy Lamey, JWN Foundation’s 2024 Volunteer of the Year

HAUGHTON…giving back fosters a stronger sense of community and instils valuable character traits