Northside Strong (www.northsidestrong.com) is an initiative led by Markella Smith, executive director of the McKinley neighborhood association in Minneapolis. Northside Strong is working with social workers, teachers, churches, and neighbors who are supporting families unable to access food, household supplies, and basic essentials right now.

Distance Learning School Kits + Back To School Fun

Minneapolis Public Schools students will start the year distance learning, at home. Having all the supplies needed, in a convenient location with easy storage makes it possible for students to be ready to learn.

For some of our north Minneapolis neighbors, getting ready for distance learning is a challenge. Many of the stores we shop at for school supplies remain closed, and the pandemic continues to alter daily life for those who are at high-risk or have lost jobs. Northside Strong is committed to making sure that families with limited transportation and access to stores are able to have what they need for a great start to this unprecedented school year.

Will you help us provide distance learning kits?

Each kit costs $20 and includes:

• Grade-level school supplies recommended for distance learning
• A storage box with a lid to keep everything organized at home
• A back-to-school gift ($5 gift card for middle school and high school students, fun activity for elementary)

Our goal is to create 100 kits. As your family gathers supplies and prepares for at-home learning, will you purchase a kit (or five!) for a north Minneapolis student?

Contribute at  www.northsidestrong.com. Put “school kit” in the description line--your donation will go directly to this effort. If you would like to drop off a “well-wishes” note too, please contact Brandi Olson @ 612-735-1490 or olson.brandi@gmail.com.

Thanks for partnering with Northside Strong to send your love, encouragement, and support to northside families.