CARIBOU, Maine – As the new school year unfolds, it is estimated that the average family will spend close to $500 on back-to-school supplies and clothing. Pines Health Services held its first school supply drive this summer to help bridge a portion of the gap between what families can afford and what students need.
“Just like good health, having the right school supplies will help get children off on the right foot for a successful school year ahead,” Lisa Caron, chief operating officer at Pines, said in a press release about the effort.
“This year’s drive allowed us to deliver eight 72 gallon totes, filled to the top, to various elementary schools in the areas we serve,” she said. “This included Caribou, Presque Isle, Fort Fairfield, Washburn, Woodland, Connor and Van Buren. It truly was a fun collection and we are already looking forward to next year’s drive.”
The drive was kicked off during National Health Center Week 2018 held Aug. 12-18 to raise awareness about the mission and accomplishments of health centers that provide affordable primary care across the country.
“As a Community Health Center, Pines is always looking for ways to improve health, economic and emotional wellbeing of children and families in the areas we serve. It is always rewarding to be able to give back to our patients when we can,” said Casey Bouchard, communications and community relations specialist for Pines Health Services and Cary Medical Center.
“One of our local principal’s said that receiving the tote of supplies was like ‘Christmas morning,’” Bouchard recalled. “That statement alone reaffirmed our vision behind the school supply drive, and without the unparalleled generosity of the Pines team and the community, we would not have been able to deliver this sweet surprise.”
Pines Health Services is a non-profit, community-based multi-specialty medical and dental practice serving the residents of northern and central Aroostook County. For more information about Pines Health Services, visit www.Pineshealth.org or www.facebook.com/pineshealthservices.
