For a second straight year, Jeffco Action Center's school supply distribution saw the number of students helped increase by 15 percent to 3,744 students and 1,619 households.

In 2007, the distribution was 2,804 students. The next year, the distribution increased by 15 percent with 3,244 students and 1,397 households served. This year that number jumped up again by 15 percent with 500 more students and 222 more households receiving supplies.

The consistent increases are a by-product of the current economy and the increased awareness of the distribution.

The school supply distribution is one of a range of seasonal services that Jeffco Action Center provides as part of its prevention focus. Several times of the year, clients need to make additional one-time purchases that can be difficult on a limited budget. The Action Center steps in during these times to help prevent clients from making a difficult decision such as deciding between paying a bill or buying school supplies.

"For the parents of school-age children receiving donated school supplies can be a financial blessing," said Mag Strittmatter, Jeffco Action Center Executive Director. "Often parents have to decide between paying rent or buying school supplies, possibly putting their housing in jeopardy. This program keeps them from having to make that difficult decision."

The 2009 Jeffco Action Center school supply distribution was from August 11th through August 17th at the Wheat Ridge Middle School.

The Kiwanis Clubs of Jefferson County teamed up with the Action Center in support of the distribution. Kiwanis members from more than 10 clubs in the county have donated money, product and volunteer time to expand this year's effort.

Thanks to generous community donations and volunteer support in making this year's distribution a resounding success.

ABOUT JEFFCO ACTION CENTER
Jeffco Action Center, a human-services non-profit, provides an immediate response to basic human needs and promotes pathways to self-sufficiency through intervention, prevention and connection to essential services. More than 25,000 Jefferson County residents receive assistance annually at the Action Center with food, clothing, homeless shelter, medical and utility assistance. With the help of hundreds of volunteers, the ActionCenter gives help, provides hope and builds dignity while breaking the cycle of poverty. For more information and to make donations please contact Joe Haines at 303-237-7704 or visit us at www.jeffcoac.org.