Back2School Project has been our vision for the Massey Community for quite some time. We have watched similar programmes work in other parts of the world and felt this is just what is needed here in our own community. Back2School Project is a programme to bring assistance for families as they prepare to send their kids back to school.
We are aware that there are families in our community who struggle with being able to provide all of the necessary stationery items for their children. B2SP partners with local schools to work with families that will benefit from this programme. It is our hope that the community (businesses and individuals alike) will also partner with this project allowing us to assist more students in the future.
We envision a beautiful mix of healthy families, healthy kids, healthy community; a meeting ground where hand and heart collide. We believe that good can happen when community joins together to help community. When we share love, even through the giving of school stationery, a child feels value and worth and prepared for what is to come.
Back2school Project is not complete until the bags have been gifted to each student. The kids are able to have a "last days of summer" event before they receive their wonderful gift of new school stationery. We call it Playground Party. Think of it as the perfect opportunity for community to share memories that are encouraging and will hopefully stick with them forever. While the kids are having fun enjoying face painters and games, families are able to connect with other families from the community. Sharing stories, sharing life. The definition of playground is a place where a group of people choose to enjoy themselves and that's what we want this to be - a place where any or all can come together as a community and simply have a good time.
Statistics show that kids who feel confident on the first day of school have a successful school year. Together, we are encouraging and empowering students to be the best they can be!
I felt a bit shy when I first got to the party. But when I got my bag I was happy. My mum had to get my two older brothers' stationery for high school. Mum just had a baby. I loved the book covers.
- Student Age 10
The Back2School stationery packs took a really large financial burden off my shoulders. My kids were very excited receiving their packs and it really started their school year off on a high note. Knowing they had all of the stationery they needed (plus the awesome extras in the pack) all ready to go on the first day was a huge relief for me. It's set them up for a happy and productive school year.
- Mum of Students
I felt good when my sister and I got our bags and things. My mum and dad are looking for a house cos we live in a motel. When they don't have any money, they have to ask around.
- Student Age 7
I didn't feel poor when I got my bag. My mum and dad had to buy my big sister's uniform and lots of stationery for high school. My little sister had to get her uniform too. If I didn't get my stationery in the bag, I woulda have felt annoyed sitting in class.
- Student Age 9
Back2School Project approached me towards the end of 2017 about this great idea they had around helping children and families. My leadership team and I were very excited about this ambitious plan and knew that if they could pull it off, the benefits for our families would be immense. Because of their unwavering commitment and energy, over one hundred and ten students have started their school year feeling very proud and ready for learning! We were surprised and very grateful when the opportunity came around for another year. Our school is always prepared to support students who need stationery, among other things. The Back2School Project has allowed those funds to be directed into other important areas.
I am truly humbled by the kind and respectful way the Back2School Team treat our students and their whanau at the celebration session. Everyone has a great time being spoilt and having fun!!!
Thank you to everyone involved in this project. To the team, their support crew and to all the sponsors- Thank You- on behalf of our school and our learning community.
Yours truly
A Primary School
Principal
This is just a vision without your support. If you would like to make an impact in the life of a child, click on the "Adopt A Backpack" link above to get started. Likewise, we will be hosting multiple fundraising events throughout the year. Keep a lookout if this is something that interests you. For further inquiries, please fill out the form below to send us and email or give us a call at 021 0200 8121.