Over 715 Backpacks Given to Youth
Kids in the Baldwin neighborhood are going back to school in style. Over 715 kids in grades K-12 received backpacks stuffed with school supplies: notebooks, pencils, crayons, markers, scissors, glue, and other essential materials. For several years, Baldwin Center has expanded its effort to supply youth from all over Pontiac with critical items that will support and supplement their education.
“A lot of our families were sharing that this is a huge relief,” said Lauren Fuller, Baldwin’s Director of Youth Programs. “Tight budgets mean tough choices when it comes to buying school uniforms or purchasing school supplies. People were very thankful.” Moms, dads, and kids of all ages waited in a line that reached around Baldwin Center, and continued down the block.
As folks waited, community partners showed up to support their efforts: Rainforest Cafe came to provide dessert, 
Oakland University mascot “The Grizz” posed with kids for pictures, and Oakland County Parks put up a bounce house for the kids to play in. Area social service agencies also staffed tables, where they provided information and resources to neighborhood residents. WIC, Oakland County health department, and Community Housing Network passed out literature, the Lions Club performed eye exams, and a mobile dentist performed checkups.
“The community has within it all the resources it needs to make powerful change,” said Alex Plum, Baldwin’s Associate Director for Programs. “Baldwin provides the venue to bring everyone together, foster relationships, and change lives. Today proved that.”
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