RJ Donovan Correctional Facility (RJD) recently teamed up with San Diego community partners to distribute books and school supplies to underserved students.
Partners involved included:
- University and State Employees (USE) Credit Union
- Sports Training Academics & Recreation Police Activities League (STAR/PAL)
- Chick-fil-A
- Reading Legacies
- Voices for Children
“RJD was excited to team up with our community partners and local law enforcement agencies to make this event successful. The 2020 school year was challenging as San Diego families navigated virtual learning, alternative childcare schedules, and uncertain employment. The goal of this event was to celebrate a return to in-person school, while easing the burden of the economic impact of the previous year,” said Marco Barragan, Community Resources Manager.
USE Credit Union donated 500 backpacks and water bottles while Reading Legacies donated 200 children’s books. Proceeds from RJD’s last food sale fundraiser filled each backpack with enough school supplies for the new school year. Before the event, school counselors and police officers identified San Diego area students to receive the backpacks.
“It was a very humbling experience to see the smiles on the kids’ faces. We were enthusiastic about providing them with the tools they need to start a successful school year in person,” said Sgt. Daniel Rivera.
During the August 28 event, over 200 backpacks were distributed. Local law enforcement agencies also volunteered to transport 225 backpacks filled with school supplies to local schools and families unable to make it to the event.
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