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 recently held its second annual school supply drive 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 kids in our area off on the right foot for a successful school year ahead. The Pines team was absolutely thrilled and excited to be able to help out for such a worthy cause,” said Lisa Caron, chief operating officer at Pines.
“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. This included Caribou, Presque Isle, Fort Fairfield, Washburn, Woodland, Connor and Van Buren. The team had a lot of fun collecting supplies last year and it was a rewarding feeling to deliver these supplies that we know are much needed,” said Caron.
National Health Center Week was Aug. 4-10. The annual celebration aims to raise awareness about the mission and accomplishments of America’s health centers, which serve close to 27 million patients, a number that continues to grow as there is an increase in demand for affordable primary care. In addition to their long history as health care homes to millions, health centers produce innovative solutions to the most pressing health care issues in their communities and reach beyond the walls of conventional medicine.
“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 are able to,” said Casey Bouchard, communications and community relations representative for Pines and Cary Medical Center.
“Without the unparalleled generosity of the Pines team and the community, we would not have been able to deliver this sweet surprise to our elementary schools and take some of that burden off of parents and teachers,” said Bouchard.
Submitted by the Community Relations and Development Office of Cary Medical Center/Pines Health Services.
