Second Story makes sure Culmore kids are ready for school

Culmore children are ready for the start of school tomorrow, thanks to a school supply giveaway event hosted by Second Story on Aug. 15.

Second Story and officers from the Mason Police District handed out 250 backpacks filled with paper, pencils, pens, and other school supplies.

The back-to-school event, at the Culmore Family Resource Center at the Olde Salem Village apartments in Bailey’s Crossroads, featured a free barbecue lunch (chicken, burritos, and hot dogs), as well as resources from Second Story’s community partners.

Mason Supervisor Andres Jimenez gave out prizes to the children, while ICNA Relief of Alexandria offered their parents free blood pressure and blood sugar tests, lipid panels, and diabetes testing.

The Alexandria ICNA (Islamic Circle of North America) center offers a mobile health clinic, food pantry, behavioral health counseling, and transitional housing for women escaping domestic abuse.

Several Fairfax County agencies and nonprofits had tables at the event with information for families about access to food, parenting skills, health and wellness services, and other resources.

Students in Second Story’s Youth Council helped ensure the event ran smoothly. The Youth Council helps young teens “learn how to express your mind, know what’s good and what’s bad, and how to get into a career,” said Keiry Lopez Cruz, who recently moved from Olde Salem Village to Arlington but still remains active in the Youth Council.

“I’m grateful to be part of the Youth Council,” Keiry said. “It helps me think big and gives me a chance to help others and help myself.”

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