While most of us are enjoying the first few weeks of summer, the beginning of the next academic school year will return faster that many realize.

As a result, the Scotland County branch of the NAACP is already preparing for the annual “Back to School…Stay in School” program planned for Aug. 13 at Scotland High School.

This project began about 16 year ago as a back-to-school rally for students to encourage them to do well in their studies and to stay in school. The first program kicked off with about 300 students being served at Bright Hopewell Church. Participation since then has more than tripled.

The thinking then was that students would do better in school if they knew that there were people that cared about them.

But we also know that educational supplies like book bags, paper, pencils and notebooks are vital for that successful start. You might be surprised by the number of our students who lack adequate school supplies. Many of them simply cannot afford them or are in situations where caregivers have not made school supplies a priority.

Because of those economic challenges, the NAACP Branch is asking for your help to purchase those essential school supplies for local students.

For this year’s “Back to School…Stay in School” Program, the NAACP is requesting that contributions be received by July 23 to have time to purchase supplies that can be distributed during the event. Your donation — even a small one — can have a big impact on a student’s success.

Last year, the group was able to collect supplies for more than 1,000 Scotland County students. The goal this summer is to exceed that number for 2016-2017 academic school year.

In addition to giving away supplies, the program will include a motivational speaker, activities for the kids, food and fun. As in the past years, the branch anticipates participation from community businesses, school board and other elected officials.

All monies should be made payable to the Scotland County NAACP #5448 and mailed to P.O Box 545, Laurinburg, N.C. 28353.

For information or to volunteer for the NAACP Back-to-School, Stay in School, call 910-277-8890.