CorePlus Credit Union + UCFS Healthcare Distribute 401 Backpacks Filled with School Supplies to Local Students
For the second consecutive year, CorePlus Credit Union (CPCU) has partnered with UCFS Healthcare to collect and distribute backpacks filled with school essentials for local students. Thanks to CorePlus employees, members, vendors, and community contacts 401 backpacks were collected this year. On August 7, at UCFS’s Edward & Mary Lord Family Health Center located at 47 Town St. in Norwich, backpacks were distributed, filled with writing and drawing materials, notebooks, art supplies, and organizational supplies.
Throughout the summer, beginning on June 24 and extending through August 5, CPCU collected backpacks and supplies at its seven branch locations in eastern Connecticut. CPCU matched the first 50 backpack donations to kickstart the program’s success. Additionally, financial contributions from local dealerships were fundamental to the drive's success, helping to purchase additional backpacks. We’re grateful for the generosity of Cardinal Honda, Champagne Motor Car Company, Eurocars Plus, Gates GMC Nissan, Holmgren Subaru, Secor Subaru, and Troiano Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. Local businesses, including Dunkin’ and Baker’s Dozen in Plainfield and Advanced Physical Therapy in Norwich, helped raise awareness and hosted collection boxes while others including Everly After Floral in Baltic contributed with direct backpack donations
"We are immensely proud of our community for rallying behind this effort to ensure that no child goes to school without the tools needed to succeed," said CPCU President and CEO Raymond Currier. "Last year, we provided 114 backpacks, and this year, we nearly quadrupled that number. I’m thrilled to see how our community has come together to support those in need.”
When children have the school supplies they need, they are better prepared for class, more confident in their abilities, and more engaged in learning. However, many families in Connecticut struggle to afford these essential items. This annual drive helps bridge that gap, providing much-needed supplies to students and easing the financial burden on teachers, who often use their own money to ensure their students are properly equipped.
The distribution event was broadcast live on Full Power Radio. The event was co-sponsored by Rose City Financial and Stephanie Rush with REMAX Legends. There were a number of additional parties on-site at the distribution event facilitating fun events and giveaways, including:
- By Faith (local artist): Facilitated a community fingerprint project
- CPCU: Provided backpacks and ice cream
- UCFS Healthcare: Provided coloring tote bags and toothbrushes
- Otis Library: Provided Library cards and children’s activities
- Uncas Health District: Provided bicycle and pedestrian safety materials plus health education materials
- Impact Teen Drivers: Provided educational materials focused on safe driving
- Norwich Public Utilities: Contributed free children’s books
About CorePlus Credit Union
CorePlus Credit Union is a federally chartered, member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative. We are a not-for-profit, not for charity, but for service credit union founded in 1936. With a strong emphasis on community development and member well-being, CorePlus Credit Union is dedicated to creating financial wellness for all. For more information, visit coreplus.org.
