By Micah Walker
For many children, going back to school means starting fresh. Not only does the beginning of the school year mean entering a new grade or school, but going shopping once again for new school supplies, clothes and shoes.
But for low-income families, the start of the school year can be nerve-wracking and overwhelming, as they struggle to come up with enough funds to give children the tools they need.
That is when the National Council of Jewish Women, Michigan come in.
The faith-based social justice nonprofit hosted its 6th annual Back 2 School Store event Sunday at Munger Elementary-Middle School on Detroit's near-west side. More than 700 children had the opportunity to browse items with a personal shopper and select new backpacks, school supplies, books, clothes, winter coats, underwear, socks and shoes.
In addition, health professionals from the Henry Ford Health System and the HUDA Clinic provided medical screenings including blood pressure, blood sugar and weight checks. Families could also visit one of the two dentists on site for medical advice, and for children with vision problems, volunteers from the Michigan Society of Eye Physicians and Surgeons provided eye examinations. All of the medical, dental and vision services were free, and available to those with or without insurance.
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