Annual backpack giveaway for kindergartners

ZANESVILLE, Ohio-  All kindergartners starting school were given the tools they need to succeed at Zane State College.

A backpack was given to any Muskingum County kindergartner starting school along with school supplies. There was also a book giveaway and anyone who needed a library card received one.

“It’s exciting because one of the things we’re trying to do is give back to the community,” said Coordinator Thasia Schilling. We want the whole community to know that we care about them. With everybody participating a little, they can help out a lot. It’s amazing to see the kids faces from smiles to being bashful.”

Schilling said it’s a collaborative effort for everything to go as planned. She said it’s great to see the library, schools, and students all work together to make this event happen.

“This is our tenth year handling the back to school event for kindergarten supplies,” said Schilling. “I would like to say its fairly easy, it’s just collaboration. The Muskingum County Family and Children First Council and their members are the ones who put this on. As soon as I mentioned it in March, it just easily comes together.”

Schilling said she enjoys setting the kids up for success.