Lots of parents and kids took time out from a summer Sunday afternoon to be reminded those lazy, crazy days are running down. They were in line to get new backpacks filled with school supplies.
It's an important savings for the residents of the surrounding Kenfield and Langfield projects in Buffalo. The 600 filled backpacks were appreciated by the parents and grandparents, but many remained worried about returning to school and in-person classes, as COVID-19 roars back.
Jacquie said she doesn't think the problems are resolved.
"Not really, because I feel like they don't have it under control yet. So what can you do?" she said. "I have several grandkids that's going to school. Put your mask on."
Jessica said it's going to be difficult for her son after a year online.
"Just started doing the ABCs and learn how to write and now we gotta start to bump him up to second grade where he's supposed to be doing math and it's a little difficult," she said.
This area around Kenfield and Langfield also has poor web access. Parents said that was been a problem until the school district distributed additional electronic equipment.
There were a lot of masks visible, although perhaps less concern since the event was outside. It was sponsored by University Councilmember Rasheed Wyatt, American Medical Response, KeyBank, County Legislature Chair April Baskin and deli owners in the area.
"The pandemic has really hit a lot of folks and I hear the cost of the school supplies is only increasing," said Wyatt. "So this is an opportunity for them to really be able focus on their children's education and not worry about coming up with a few dollars to get their school supplies."
"It's great to see local businesses chipping in to give to a worthy cause," said AMR Regional Director Tim Frost. "The school year's about ready to kick off. This is a relatively low expense way to give back to others and to make a difference in other people's lives."
