The Helen Wirt Lee Back to School Program provides new shoes, socks, shirts, pants and undergarments to school-aged children so that they have quality, weather appropriate apparel needed to return to school. By sending children to school prepared, they are more likely to be able to focus on school and succeed. Back to School shopping can be a financial strain on parents, especially those in the ALICE population. United Way recognizes this need and is proud to offer a program to fill the gap that also provides a major boost in the local economy as it results in over $80,000 in local retail purchases each year.
United Way of Bay County and The Youth Advisory Council (YAC) have collaborated together to provide both clothing and backpacks full of school supplies in effort to minimize forms, transportation, and pick-up for the families.
PreK- 12th Grade Bay County students who fall at or below the ALICE (Asset Limited Income Constrained Employed) threshold or are in foster care qualify with proper documentation.