As the new academic year approaches, communities across St. Mary’s South have benefited from a long-standing annual outreach effort aimed at easing the financial burden of back-to-school preparation for local families. This year, politician and community advocate Kelvin “Shugy” Simon and his dedicated team led the third iteration of their popular Book Bag and School Supplies Giveaway, held this week at Urlings Primary School.
The event welcomed children of all age groups from every neighborhood across the St. Mary’s South constituency, and in total, distributed more than 400 fully stocked bookbags alongside essential school supplies to participating young attendees. Simon has maintained a multi-year collaborative partnership for the initiative with Dr. Shedia Christopher Laguer and the International Awareness and Involvement Committee of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., NJGCAC, expanding the reach and impact of the giveaway each year.
Beyond distributing critical learning materials, the day was designed as a community gathering: children took part in a range of interactive games and recreational activities, bringing together families from across the constituency to connect ahead of the new school term. Organizers note that the initiative serves two key goals: ensuring every child has the tools they need to start the academic year successfully, and creating a shared, positive experience for local households.
None of this work would have been possible without the widespread support of the broader community, organizers emphasized. Volunteers gave their time to coordinate the event, local and regional donors contributed funding, educators provided guidance on what supplies students need most, and community partners lent space and resources to make the day run smoothly.
For Simon, this annual event is far more than a one-off outreach effort — it reflects his core approach to public service. In remarks after the distribution, he emphasized that his commitment to serving the residents of St. Mary’s South, particularly children and elderly residents, does not depend on his formal political position. “Community service is a responsibility that doesn’t shift with political changes,” Simon explained, expressing his sincere gratitude to every person and group that contributed to the 2024 giveaway.
Looking ahead, the event is set to remain a staple annual initiative in St. Mary’s South, part of a broader, ongoing push to invest in youth development and remove barriers to educational access for local children. Organizers plan to continue growing the event in coming years to reach even more families in need across the constituency.