North Jersey Back-To-School Drive Gets Assist From State Assemblyman

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — A back-to-school drive in North Jersey got a boost from a state assemblyman who represents several towns in Essex County.

Child Focus and Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Passaic & Union Counties recently held a donation drive to benefit children and teens living in foster care. The six-week drive collected thousands of school supplies donated by community members, local businesses and organizations. Donated items included backpacks, notebooks, pens, pencils, art supplies, calculators, crayons, binders and other classroom essentials.

New Jersey Assemblyman Al Barlas, a Republican from the 40th district, was among those who pitched in for the effort.

“Every child deserves the opportunity to begin the school year with the tools they need to thrive,” said Barlas, who represents Caldwell, Essex Fells, Fairfield, North Caldwell, Verona and West Caldwell in Essex County, in addition to several towns in Bergen and Passaic counties.

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