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Suffolk Commonwealth’s Attorney Narendra R. Pleas and members of her staff hosted a “back to school” drive in North Suffolk at the College Drive Walmart Tuesday, Aug. 12. 

In addition to the supplies collected at the drive, members of the Suffolk Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office also donated supplies. All supplies are going to Suffolk school students, according to an office news release.

This year, supplies are being provided to students who live in unstable housing environments. Donated items were split between two local entities, ForKids and Suffolk Public Schools.

ForKids is one of the largest providers of homeless services to families in Virginia with a goal of achieving stability for families. ForKids offers academic enrichment and support for Suffolk students at their Birdsong Center facility on Constance Road. 

Major Gifts Officer Sarah Carr received the supplies on behalf of ForKids.

Suffolk Public Schools Superintendent John B. Gordon III, Ph.D., accepted supplies for the division’s McKinney-Vento programming (federal Title IX), which focuses on homeless students.

“School can be difficult enough for students, but especially for those whose housing is unstable. We wanted our contributions to make the greatest impact to Suffolk’s kids,” Pleas said. “If we can help ensure our kids have the necessary tools to be successful in school, we increase the likelihood of positive outcomes for those kids, their families, and our community.”