Richmond back-to-school event provides supplies to 60 students

Sixty students received backpacks filled with school supplies and other gifts at a Richmond back-to-school event aimed at helping families prepare for the new academic year.

The fourth annual Back-To-School community initiative was held Aug. 8 at Riverside Palace Banquet Hall on Knox Street, north of River Road. Families met BC Lions players and mascots, played games, shared a meal and connected with charities and non-profits.

Harvey Kooner organized the event with the Henry Schein Cares Foundation’s B.C. division. He said the goal was to ease worries about the cost of binders, supplies, backpacks and groceries at the start of school. Kooner said the initiative has helped more than 270 B.C. children over four years.

Students came from across the Lower Mainland, with many from Richmond, through referrals including KidsPlay Foundation, Richmond schools, Richmond Food Bank and KidSport BC. Riverside Palace Banquet Hall donated the venue, staff, décor and dinner.