By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
Help sponsor a kid to go back to school with new clothes
pic bofw-donation
Laura Vieira, executive director of Ray of Hope, recently received a generous donation from Judy Jimenez, Manteca branch manager of Bank of the West, for the upcoming Back-to-School event benefiting students in need. - photo by VINCE REMBULAT
Ray of Hope is making a change to its Back-to-School event.

Gone are major sponsors such as Mervyn’s, where needy youngsters as referred to by Manteca Unified and other agencies once roamed the aisles of the recently closed retailer prior to the upcoming school year for new clothes.

Laura Vieira, Ray of Hope’s executive director, said last week of the new plans calling for businesses and members of the community to sponsor students in a way similar to that of the annual Christmas Scrolls gift-giving event.

Thus far, she’s received donations towards the cause from places such as Bank of the West.

But the big push begins next week, from June 24 through July 30, with a backpack and school supply drive.

“Your church can get names, grades, and needs of a child that needs support for back to school or you can collect school supplies and backpacks,” Vieira said.

Among the items needed for the ninth annual Back-to-School event are large backpacks, binders, erasers, scissors, pencil sharpeners, notebooks, folders, and pens and pencils.

“This is a big year of need for school clothing for children,” Vieira said.

Those looking to make a donation can call the Ray of Hope at (209) 823-3335 or inquire at the office, 204 N. Sherman Ave., to get the specific size of a child in need for school clothes.