MAITLAND STEPS UP FOR BACK TO SCHOOL DRIVE

Ms JENNY AITCHISON (Maitland—Minister for Regional Transport and Roads)—At the beginning of each year my team and I run an annual Back to School Drive. The Back to School Drive provides disadvantaged children and families with essential school supplies they need to start the new school year. The new year is an expensive time for parents having to purchase back to school essentials such as books, bags, lunch boxes, pens, pencils, and folders on top of uniforms and shoes. I thank everyone in Maitland who donated and showed our community spirit is alive and well. We saw some very generous donations come through for those doing it a little tough. I am so grateful to Maitland Regional Community Support [MRCS] distribute the donations to those who needed them, and work with other community groups who service those in need. MRCS is often the first port of call for families and individuals seeking support and financial assistance, and their back-to-school response requires a massive community effort. I thank MRCS Manager Sarah Adams and her team for the work they do day in and day out but particularly for helping us get kids back to school with the essentials that they need.