The first day of school should be a time of exciting new possibilities for school children.

This special day should not be overshadowed with concerns about worn clothes, shoes that no longer fit or not having the tools necessary for learning. This new beginning should not be diminished by the not having proper school supplies, a backpack to hold the supplies, clothes in good condition, or feeling self-conscious about personal grooming. Unfortunately, for many children in Portage County the excitement of a fresh start and a chance to excel are replaced with a sad reality. With your support, the United Way of Portage County’s Project Fresh Start will inspire hope, renew self-esteem, and prepare these children for academic success.

Project Fresh Start began over ten years ago and has grown steadily in response to the increasing needs of the children in our community. Within Portage County roughly 2000 k-9^th children (2006-2007 count) were eligible for the free and reduced lunch program. This count for free and reduced is families at or below 185% of the poverty level of $38,203 for a family of four.

While the needs of our community can be overwhelming, with your support we can make a difference for these students on August 23, 2008. The success and growth of Project Fresh Start is because of caring people like you who share their time and resources to make a difference in the lives of children. A gift of $90 will outfit a child for success by providing school supplies, hygiene products, vouchers to area stores, gently used clothing, booster seats for those who need them, backpacks and calculators.

On August 23rd, the children will be able to select supplies to get them off to the right start for the new school year. With your donations of school supplies and financial contributions together we can make the first day of school a fresh start. Please also make this program known to those who may benefit from Project Fresh Start.

Additional information will be available early June on what supplies are needed, and how you can volunteer. Please call the United Way Volunteer Center if you would like to learn more.

PARTICIPANT INFORMATION

Project Fresh Start is open to k-9 studnets who live in and attend Portage County Schools. To qualify your houshold income must be such that you qualify for free/reduced lunch.

FAMILY REGISTRATION LETTER AND FORM

PROJECT FRESH START SUPPORTER

Are you interested in helping to donate towards Project Fresh Start? Financial contributions and school supplies are sought to distribute to these particpants.

Do you wish to be a collection site? Click here to register (will be active 5/14)

Do you wish to know where public collection points are located? Click here for a list (Will be active 6/1)

If you would like to make a financial contribution please send to contributions to 1100 Centerpoint Dr., tevens Point WI 54481 attn: Project Fresh Start

POSTERS

Registration poster

VOLUNTEER INFORMATION.

Beginning June 1 indviduals and groups can sign up to volunteer August 21, 22, and 23. All volunteer registration this year will happen using www.volunteersrock.org.

DETAILED VOLUNTEER INFORMATION

PHOTO RELEASE FORM