Start School Strong
We build partnerships with schools and corporations to ensure all kids have the resources they need to thrive in school. From providing school supplies to eliminating school lunch debt, ensuring kids have access to vaccines and health screenings, we are committed to bridging the gaps for children and their families.
Together, we ensure all kids Start School Strong.
Strong Start Strategies
Tools for School
New school years come with costs that many ALICE families struggle with. Backpacks, school supplies, first day of school clothes, uniforms and fees can all add up. We work with partner corporations to create backpacks with new supplies and tools and distribute them throughout the communities. Together, we ensure that when children arrive at their desks, they have the tools to succeed.
Care Corners
Basic needs shouldn’t be a barrier to learning. Many ALICE families in Hunterdon County struggle to afford food, hygiene items, school supplies, and other essentials. CARE Corners bring dignity and support directly to students by creating welcoming, school-based pantries stocked with nutritious food, personal care items, and seasonal necessities. Through partnerships with local businesses and community organizations, CARE Corners ensure every student has access to what they need—right where they learn—so they can focus on growing, not going without.
Tackling Unpaid Lunch Debt
For many families, the cost of lunch adds up and each year, thousands of dollars in unpaid lunch debt adds up across schools in our community. The median unpaid meal debt per school district increased to $6,900 in 2024, marking a 26% rise from the previous year. We work with lunch providers, districts and the community to forgive and pay off those debts so that our children all have access to hot meals while at school.
Strong Start Community Days
Every family deserves a strong, healthy beginning. For many in our community, access to health screenings, vaccinations, and essential resources can be out of reach. Strong Start Community Days bring services directly to neighborhoods—offering families a one-stop hub for wellness, support, and connection. In partnership with local agencies, healthcare providers, and community organizations, these free, family-friendly fairs offer vital screenings, helpful resources, and fun activities for all ages—ensuring that every child and caregiver has the tools to thrive, right from the start.
"Education is the most powerful weapon in which you can use to change the world."
-Nelson Mandela
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On average, families spend over $890 per child on back-to-school expenses, including supplies, clothing, technology, and fees. For ALICE families, that cost is often overwhelming and out of reach.
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Students from low-income households are 4 times more likely to be chronically absent from school due to unmet needs like clothing, hygiene products, or medical care. We help remove these barriers by providing essentials that allow children to attend school with confidence and consistency.
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94% of teachers spend their own money on supplies, averaging over $820 per year. Programs like Start School Strong ease that burden on educators while ensuring students come prepared from day one.
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Students who have their basic needs met report higher self-esteem, reduced anxiety, and better classroom behavior. Start School Strong is more than a backpack—it’s a boost to a child’s emotional readiness and confidence.
Strong Start Community Days
We're bringing resources, tools, fun and events to communities across Hunterdon. Sign up to join us as a participant - or showcase your organization/company!