Local Students Gather Supplies
BOBBY ARDOIN
Editor/Consulting Writer
City youths converged on the Opelousas Boys and Girls Club for nearly four hours Saturday and nearly all of them left with no-cost book bags and other essential school supplies that were funded by municipal officials, private businesses and civic organizations.
The 11th annual event hosted by Opelousas Alderman At-Large Marvin Richard attracted a steady stream of supply-seekers who left with School District-approved clear or mesh bags stuffed with writing materials and composition books.
Richard said there were approximately 2,000 book bags available during the event, which also treated the participants and their families to hot dogs and ice cream cones.
There were talent contests performed on the gymnasium floor in addition to hip-hop and Zydeco music, which ceated impromptu dancing from some of the youths and parents as they selected their bags.
While Richard may have been a maestro, he said that the supply drive proceeded smoothly with the help of others.
“We wouldn’t be doing this if it wasn’t for all the helpers we have from the different sororities, civic organizations, some of our elected officials and assistance from Med-Express Ambulance Service, said Richard.
“Our goal is to show the community that there are people here who are committed to helping their children start school with many of the materials that they will need this year. Prices for everything are rising, so we think this will help some of those that may be struggling financially right now,” said Richard.
Richard said that crucial assistance during the Saturday event was provided by Lance Chambers and Connie Schexnider who were provided on-scene assistance.
