A teen led initiative providing students in need with the necessary tools to succeed.

“To me, Tools for School is an incredible organization. Every year, the people in the nonprofit work tirelessly to gain supplies and sponsors to make backpacks for students who do not have proper school supplies. It is such a rewarding process to know that the actions taken at TFS make the community a better place.”

JESSICA PARITSKY, TEEN BOARD MEMBER

Good morning,

The 6th district police community relations team wanted to say thank you so much for including us in your Tools for School team. Your donation of school bags to our drive was so appreciated. With the pandemic and businesses not financially able to help us as they were trying to stay afloat themselves, your help could not have come at a better time. With schools being closed children still needed supplies for virtual learning. We were able to drive throughout our district and hand out school bags to area children as well as giving out at our National Night Out. I have to say the parents were so grateful because they too were struggling during this time and this act of kindness took a little bit of burden off of them. We thank you so much and hope to be considered again this year as part of your team.

JULIE CARPENTER, PHILADELPHIA POLICE

“This school year has not been easy, but Tools for School made it possible for children to feel joy, excitement, and confidence throughout the ups and downs or hybrid learning.”

“Thanks to Tools for School, 250 children in Camden City and the greater South Jersey region had what they needed to feel prepared and confident for a most unusual school year. The backpacks were so thoughtfully packed and included earbuds, masks, and hand sanitizer to meet the demands of remote and hybrid learning, in addition to standard school supplies.

Students faced significant challenges due to Covid-19 and the supplies really helped when families weren’t sure how they’d manage a remote school year and the financial strains many families were up against.”

BRENDA ROACH

“TFS is one of the few things I have ever been involved with where I constantly feel like the work I am doing is actively contributing to helping others.”

MAYA HURTIG, TEEN BOARD MEMBER

“Just want to say a big thank you for the Tools for School program. I personally was able to hand out the backpacks to the children last year in need. What an amazing job you all are doing. The kids' faces lit up so bright when they saw their backpack. It was the sweetest thing ever. I wish you were here to see their faces. This year I will take pictures. Kellman Brown Academy is so happy we are participating in your amazing program again this summer. I know you will reach your goal this year. The Kellman Brown Community is behind you all the way. Thank you again for caring so much about our kids.“

JENNIFER SHOLDER, KELLMAN BROWN ACADEMY