Registration opens for Project Fresh Start

Metro Wire Staff

Registration is now open for Project Fresh Start, but this year’s event will have a twist.

Operated by the volunteer center of the United Way of Portage County, the program provides free school supplies to qualifying students.

The typical distribution event will not be held in August due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead, school supplies will be delivered to each school, and families will receive supplies via school staff members.

Families will still need to register in advance, and in early August, confirmation letters will be sent via U.S. Mail.

Registration is open through Friday, July 24 for any 4K-12 student enrolled in any school across Portage Co. Online and printable registration forms are available at www.volunteersrock.org/pfs.

To receive supplies, students must qualify for federal free and reduced-price meal program through their school.

The United Way expects more than 3,000 students will be eligible to receive supplies this year. Last year, the group gave supplies to more than 900 students.

“Project Fresh Start is vital in making sure all students begin the school year ready to learn,” said Kelly Skeels, United Way of Portage County Community Services Coordinator. “We know that this new design for Project Fresh Start may cause some concern for families, but we want to assure them that they will receive the needed school supplies.”

Contact the United Way of Portage County Volunteer Center at 715-341-6740 or [email protected] for more information.