By Ronica Shannon
Register News Writer
RICHMOND —
Kentucky River Foothills and White House Clinic have teamed up to help provide free school supplies to children in Madison and Estill counties.
This is the first year for the program, which was created to help students in need be able to focus more on learning.
“We’re mainly trying to make sure that kids have what they need so they don’t have to worry about not having pencils and notebooks, and can focus just on learning,” said Heidi Kurgat, case manager for White House Clinic. “ ... We thought it would be a great way to make sure that kids get started back to school on the right foot. I hope we can work together to keep the students prepared and focused on their education.”
Planning for the program began in August and is just now beginning to be a source for local schoolchildren. The number of school supplies available are limited and include basic supplies such as notebooks, pencils, folders and glue, as an example.
“We just want to give them a good starting point,” Kurgat said.
The supplies have been donated from local businesses and by White House Clinic employees.
“Our employees have been great about getting the basic supplies,” Kurgat said. “All the supplies are new supplies, and without them we wouldn’t be able to do this.”
There are no income eligibility requirements for those receiving the supplies.
“We do ask that if they have the resources to get their school supplies that they do so,” she said. “But, we do understand with the economy being the way it is.”
Those at Kentucky River Foothills are excited to begin this program with the White House Clinic, said Marilyn Tyree, community services manager for Kentucky River Foothills.
“Through this partnership, we want to give every child in our community an opportunity to learn and succeed in school this year,” Tyree said.
To apply for assistance, call Carolyn Chapman in Madison County at 623-6514 or Eloise Mullins at (606) 723-4492.
Ronica Shannon can be reached at rshannon@richmondregister.com or 624-6608.
