A City of Malden backpack drive led by Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Coordinator Bybiose Larochelle and Housing Families, Inc. ensured that more than 500 backpacks filled with school supplies got into the hands of students to ensure a great start to the new school year. The effort which took place over several weeks was run out of the Mayor’s office which thanks to the generosity of so many was piled high with backpacks and school supplies. “I’m grateful to Bybiose for initiating this effort,” said Mayor Christenson. “There was a need in the community, and she went above and beyond to make sure our students were taken care of.”
There were several Community partners who stepped up to assist the cause. Eliot Family Resource Center, led by Liliana Patino donated more than 150 backpacks. Charlotte Stout And Molly Abrahamson of Housing Families, Inc. collaborated with the City to provide invaluable assistance during the distribution. Cataldo Ambulance and City Hall departments generously contributed supplies and added to the success of the event. Malden Housing Authority Director Steve Finn provided the space at Linden and Newland Community Rooms for the two-day backpack distributions.
Pictured: Mayor Christenson, MYEP Co-Director Kashawna Harling (left of Mayor), along with Triangle and Housing Families Volunteers preparing for the backpack give away