WEST CHESTER, PA — State Sen. Carolyn Comitta’s West Chester district office is collecting new backpacks through early August for children served by the Crime Victims Center of Chester County, as community organizations prepare families for the start of the 2026-27 school year.
The donation drive accepts new backpacks at Comitta’s district office, 17 E. Gay St., where the public can drop off donations during regular business hours, Monday through Friday. The office is serving as a collection site for the Crime Victims Center’s annual back-to-school initiative.
The effort is intended to help children receiving services from the Crime Victims Center begin the school year with essential supplies while easing costs for families.
Comitta said the drive provides an opportunity for residents to support local children before classes begin.
“As we approach the start of a new school year, we’re helping ensure kids are ready to hit the ground running on the first day with new backpacks and school supplies,” Comitta said. “If you are able, please consider supporting the families served by the good work at the CVC by donating a backpack.”
Crime Victims Center Chief Executive Officer Christine Zaccarelli said the annual event helps families prepare for the school year.
“Going back to school shopping was always my favorite part of going ‘Back to School’ and it’s so much fun to watch our families get to shop and get excited for the new school year,” Zaccarelli said. “We are really grateful to Senator Comitta and her team for their help with this event for so many years!”
According to the announcement, research indicates that access to school supplies can improve students’ confidence, reduce anxiety and help them participate more fully in the classroom.
The Crime Victims Center of Chester County has provided services to crime victims in the county for 53 years and serves as the county’s designated provider of services for victims of sexual violence.
The organization operates 24-hour hotlines for victims seeking assistance. Victims of sexual assault can call (610) 692-7273, while victims of other crimes can call (610) 692-7420.
More information about the Crime Victims Center is available at https://cvcofcc.org.
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