United Way of Henderson County (UWHC) is seeking support from across the community for the fifth annual Day of Action, taking place virtually to help Henderson County Public Schools (HCPS) students and staff get back to in-person learning safely. United Way is spearheading an effort to fund and assemble 13,000 Back to School hygiene kits in preparation for the start of in-person learning later this month. Each kit will include hand sanitizer (generously donated by Gaia Herbs), masks, and helpful handouts about how students and their families can stay safe while at school or at home.
Sponsored by Pardee UNC Health Care and in partnership with HCPS, Day of Action has shifted to just one project that allows for safe and socially-distanced volunteering by the community, in support of all HCPS students.
HCPS Associate Superintendent for Administrative Services and incoming Superintendent Dr. John Bryant said, “A safe return to school, even in a hybrid remote and in-person model, will help ensure our students can continue their learning, receive needed nutrition, increase access to behavioral health services, and re-engage with their peers in a positive setting. We know that many of our families have been experiencing increased challenges since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Resources like these Back to School Kits will be critical tools in preparing students for a healthy return to campus, while reducing risk of COVID-19 transmission."
Volunteers are needed to help assemble sets of 100 kits, and the community is asked to donate funds for the purchase of materials in each kit. Individuals and organizations can sponsor one kit for $5, an entire classroom for $125, or any amount they choose. Pardee UNC Health Care is continuing their support as the lead sponsor for this annual event, and Pisgah Health Foundation has awarded a grant that will be put towards the total cost of supplies.
Community members who want to volunteer and/or donate funds can do so easily by
texting ACTION to 71777 or by visiting United Way’s website at
www.liveunitedhc.org, and clicking “Day of Action” on the homepage.
