Maine’s largest retailer is helping students from lower-income families get bookbags as they go back to school.
Continuing a recent tradition, L.L. Bean has donated around 1,000 backpacks to elementary, middle and high school students throughout the state.
A BUSLOAD – 100 L.L. Bean backpacks are seen here, destined for students throughout Aroostook County.
In Aroostook County, the retail giant partnered with the United Way of Aroostook and the Caribou Senior Citizen’s Bingo club, which donated pencils, notebooks and supplies that come in the backpacks. Another partner, Aroostook County Action Program, helps distribute them to eligible families.
“We know how difficult it is for families to work this into their budget,” said Claudia Stevens, United Way of Aroostook executive director. “It’s an expensive time of year.”
Now in its third year in Aroostook County, L.L. Bean’s donation are a good investment, Stevens said. The bags are durable and tend to last more than year, so families can use them for a while, she said.
It’s also a good way for the United Way of Aroostook to reach families that may benefit from other efforts, notably the early childhood reading initiative, bringing children up to age 5 free books. “Those are the most critical years in a child’s life,” Stevens said.
This year L.L. Bean is donating about $50,000 worth of backpacks to students throughout Maine, said senior public relations manager Carolyn Beem.
Along with Aroostook County, L.L. Bean is donating backpacks to families in regions including York County, greater Portland, Â Androscoggin County, the western mountain region, the Midcoast and Down East.
“We typically work with agencies as they are best able to assess the community need,” Beem said.
