The back to school drive at the Lorton Community Action Center has taken on a new twist this year due to the plans for the coming school year and the pandemic. Volunteers are out collecting school supplies, but for now, they are getting supplies for the students to home-school, and when the school officials make the decision to go back to the classroom, there will be another load of supplies for the classroom.

“These kits are to be utilized during home school and additional kits will be given to the school for when students are in the classroom,” said Elizabeth Hankins at the Lorton Community Action Center.

Throughout August, they will be collecting supplies but have not made the decision of when and where to distribute the supplies. It’s another unknown variable in the world of COVID-19. Anyone can sponsor a child for $10 through the Back2School web page.

“Many of our families have experienced a deeper financial impact as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and need your help!,” it said on the school drive webpage.

Working through the Fairfax County Public Schools, LCAC will be working directly with the county and a local vendor to purchase pre-packaged, sanitized school supply kits. These $10 kits are designed with everything a student will need for schooling at home and will help our students adapt to their new normal this school year.

This year, they are using pre-packed kits so all students the same age will have the same supplies, and donors, volunteers and staff are kept safe during this uncertain time.

To find out more about donating for the Back2School program, email questions to info@lortonaction.org; 703-339-5161; Address 9518 Richmond Hwy Lorton, VA 22199.