Over 1,500 backpacks distributed to families at Community Resource Center

Matthias Vonilla picks his backpack from the Norwalk Community Resource Center on Monday. (Photo by Vincent Medina)

NORWALK - Families lined up and around the corner at the Community Resource Center on Monday for a free backpack giveaway, distributed by L.A. Care and Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan.

Over 1,500 backpacks were handed out, along with school supplies, information on education and social assistance resources from local community-based organizations, balloons, and snacks.

“At Community Resource Centers, we focus on helping vulnerable communities. We know inflation right now is really high, we know prices of meals, it’s ridiculous, right? Gas, and all that stuff,” said Maria Jurado, manager at the Norwalk Community Resource Center. “So, this is really important for us because we get to help those communities that may be in need. It may not be something with all the books they may need, but it’s definitely something that will help them throughout the school year.”

Marissa Flournoy came to the event with her 8-year-old son Daniel. She said the event was a great way to get him started on the right foot.

“[Daniel] really gets excited every time, as far as getting into the new school year, and a new backpack really means a lot to him,” said Flournoy.

Senator Bob Archuleta, who was on hand to help hand out the school supplies, said it was “a great day for the kids and the community.”

Vice Mayor Margarita Rios said that the event was “very needed in our community.”

“The kids are very excited; it looks like they’re very excited to get back to school,” said Rios. “I see a lot of excitement and gratitude from the families and parents.”