Despite Back-to-School Uncertainty, PRISM Kicks off School Supply Drive

It’s still uncertain whether kids will return to classrooms this fall, but one thing is certain, students still need school supplies. 

Nonprofit PRISM, based in Golden Valley, hands out backpacks with supplies every year to kids. It’s part of the organization’s Back to School Success program. However, because of COVID-19 this year, not many families know about these resources. 

Backpacks will include safety supplies.

“With our new drive-through model due to COVID, we’ve lost the ability to connect with people in person,” said Alisha Olson, advancement associate for PRISM. “So, we don’t have as much time to sit and talk about what else is going on and get them registered with other programs available here.”

PRISM is hoping to give out 860 backpacks, but so far only about 150 kids have registered. While the backpacks have all the basic school supplies student need, PRISM has added safety supplies as well. That includes masks, hand sanitizers and Clorox wipes.

Olson said PRISM hopes to fill the growing need in the community. 

“With COVID, parents are losing wages, losing hours, and just finances being tighter,” said Olson. “We know that these backpacks can stretch their budget even further.”

PRISM will be ready for families to pick up their backpacks curbside August 21st and 28th from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Register for Back to School Success Program

To qualify for PRISM’s Back to School Success program, children must reside in Golden Valley, Robbinsdale, New Hope, Crystal or Plymouth (east of I-494), and show proof of residency (e.g, utility bill, ID).

To register, text (763)308-4890 or email prism.signup@gmail.com. Give your first and last name, and children’s name(s) and grade for each child. Registration is open until August 14th or until full. 

Donate to Program

To donate to PRISM’s Back to School Success program, drop them off at one of the organizations faith partners below by August 10th. 

• Cornerstone Church (5000 W Broadway Ave – Crystal)
• Golden Valley Lutheran (5501 Glenwood Ave – Golden Valley)
• Holy Nativity Lutheran (3990 Winnetka Ave N – Crystal)
• Mount Olivet Lutheran Church (12235 Old Rockford Rd – Plymouth)
• Robbinsdale Parkway UCC (4200 Lake Road – Robbinsdale)
• Valley Community Presbyterian (3100 Lilac Drive N – Golden Valley)  

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