CHESTER, PA– August 25, 2023 – On Wednesday, hundreds of local families attended the Chester Upland School District’s (CUSD) Annual Backpack Giveaway.
The event, generously sponsored by NFL player and Chester native Bilal Nichols, provided a day filled with free fun and essential supplies for the upcoming school year.
Attendees enjoyed a variety of free activities and food including a BBQ-style meal, face painting, moon bounces, concession stands, water ice, horseback riding, as well as access to community health information and resources, and music. The highlight of the day was the school supply giveaways, which ensured that students were well- equipped to start the school season.
Dr. Parkinson, Superintendent of Schools for Chester Upland School District, expressed his gratitude for how the giveaway turned out. “We are incredibly thankful to our event sponsor and community partners for coming together to ensure the success of this event and to provide our students with the necessary supplies to begin the school year,” said Dr. Parkinson. “It’s always great to witness our families and students having fun together. We are looking forward to a successful upcoming school season.”
CUSD officials and volunteers from the Making a Change Group helped to distribute backpacks filled with school supplies to the event attendees. Local community organizations, including Everest Urgent Care, set up resource tables offering additional school supplies. The City of Chester’s Recycling department also participated in the event, providing a sign-up sheet for residents interested in receiving a city-issued trash can and learning more about the city’s recycling program.
Additionally, representatives from every CUSD school were present at informational tables, engaging with parents and students to address their questions and concerns.
CUSD extends heartfelt gratitude to all who attended the event, including the event partners: The Boys and Girls Club of Chester, Making a Change Group, and the 21st Century Community Learning Center Program.
The first day of school for all CUSD students is Tuesday, September 5, 2023.
