Operation Backpack, huge success

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Courtney Richardson
  • 4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --   This year Team Seymour contributed $3,249.94 in donations and school supplies to many students in Wayne County.

"Our mission is to surround students with community support, empowering them to achieve in school and life," said Mrs. Sudie Davis, Wayne County Communities in Schools (CIS) executive director. "Meeting the students' needs is critical to the teacher having more time to teach."

The Wayne County CIS, school district and Seymour Johnson joined together to provide school supplies for students in need. Many of the students are homeless, living in foster care or come from families that are barely managing it in this tough economy. According to the Wayne County CIS donations exceeding $9,400 enabled 49 boxes of school supplies to be evenly distributed to the schools.

Within the first few weeks of the school year, school social workers are responsible for identifying students in need of supplies. They get a count together and send the numbers to the local non-profit organization, Wayne County (CIS).

"This community, including Seymour Johnson, rise to the occasion when there's a need" said Mrs. Davis.

Although there were many challenges with Airmen preparing for base exercises, annual awards, and other fundraisers, 2nd Lt Ralph Soto, a Chicago native and Company Grade Officer Committee member, spear headed "Operation Backpack" for the base. "It was a little tougher this year versus last year but throughout it all, the base came together and made this year a success."

Team Seymour's involvement in the event began 3 years ago and has since became tradition.

"I would like to thank the Airmen for all their help and support with the "Operation Backpack" fundraiser, it is a worthy event and your generous donations have afforded many students around Wayne County with their necessary supplies to attend school," said Lieutenant Soto.

"It's a lot of work but it's a good feeling. They are always so excited when we walk in with their supplies," said Mrs. Davis. "Thank you so much for all you (Lieutenant Soto) did, we value the commitment of both you and your military community."