S.T.A.R.S. group is working hard

While local students are enjoying their summer break, the members of S.T.A.R.S. (Supplies To Assist R Students) of West Orange have been busy packing school supplies and backpacks for the upcoming school year.

The S.T.A.R.S. board of directors works year-round to ensure economically challenged students have the same opportunity as their peers. At the end of 2013, the state of Florida had identified 70,215 students statewide who were homeless at some point of the school year, S.T.A.R.S. officials said. Over the last 11 years, S.T.A.R.S. of West Orange has provided more than 100,000 backpacks and school supplies to students in critical need in Orange County.

“This monumental task can only be completed due to our local churches, civic clubs, businesses and residents that support our efforts through monetary and in-kind donations,” S.T.A.R.S. officials said. “Additionally, hundreds of volunteers work all summer in shifts at our 3,500-square-foot facility located in West Oaks Mall in Ocoee. This coming school year, Orange County School teachers and administration can expect 60 schools and more than 9,000 students to be ready for success at school level, thanks to our community believing in S.T.A.R.S. of West Orange offering Supplies To Assist R Students.”

To learn more or to donate, visit supportSTARS.org.