National Grid providing more than 4,000 backpacks to schoolchildren

‘Empowering Futures – One Backpack at a Time’ provides students with tools, confidence to start school year off strong

National Grid Press Release & Photo

Having the tools to succeed is foundational to any educational journey, and it starts with ensuring children can return to school in the fall with the necessary tools and confidence to begin the year on a high note.

National Grid’s back-to-school initiative, “Empowering Futures – One Backpack at a Time,” will provide backpacks, school supplies, personal care items and other essentials to more than 4,000 children across the company’s Western New York service area this month.

“At National Grid, we believe that every child deserves the opportunity to start the school year with dignity,” said Robert Simmons III, National Grid’s vice president for U.S. social impact and community engagement and executive director of the National Grid Foundation.

“Providing backpacks filled with essential supplies is more than a gesture; it’s a statement that we see their potential and are committed to supporting their journey. Empowering young learners from underserved communities is an investment in the future of our neighborhoods, our workforce, and our world.”

National Grid Regional Director Ken Kujawa said, “Helping children head back to school with the confidence and supplies needed to succeed is part of National Grid’s ongoing commitment to our local communities. When kids are ready to learn, we are empowering the next generation and investing in the community’s future workforce.”

Throughout August, National Grid will donate backpacks and personal care items for all K-12 age groups to Back to Basics Outreach Ministry, Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor Commission, Queen City Clean Waters, Resource Council of WNY, and T.O.P. Enterprises in Buffalo for distribution throughout the local community. In addition, National Grid will donate school supplies and personal care items for hundreds of students within the Dunkirk city, Livonia central, Niagara Falls city and Olean city school districts.

National Grid’s social impact and community engagement efforts seek to address community needs by increasing access to affordable energy, developing the energy workforce of tomorrow, and supporting nonprofits who serve our customers. To learn more about our community presence, visit www.nationalgridus.com.