Local organization gives away school supplies to help students whose parents are in jail

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Thousands of Charlotte-Mecklenburg students have a parent who is in jail so a local organization is stepping in to make sure they are prepared for the upcoming school year.

The Center for Community Transitions held a drive-through school supply event Thursday.

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They gave out about 200 backpacks filled with supplies outside Thomasboro Academy.

The group said it’s important to stay engaged with children, especially during the pandemic.

“The more the community is involved in children’s lives, the less likely (they will) experience abuse or neglect,” said Ilona Silva Alvarez, with the Center for Community Transitions.

Other organizations like Elevation Church helped with the giveaway.