DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES (KABC) — A local veteran’s group is committed to helping students get ready for the new school year.
This is nothing new for the Veterans Advocacy Group of America. For 10 years, the organization has provided services such as job training and placement, making sure thousands of kids have what they need at the start of their school year.
“Me and my sisters are going to benefit from this, mainly because we need back-to-school supplies. That’s the main thing that’s happening right now,” Emma Corona said.
The nonprofit says it has given away over 10,000 backpacks to kids all over Southern California.
“For families that are making ends meet day to day, this is a big help in what they do and the sacrifices the families have to go through. And being that I got three small children myself, I think it’s very impactful to get some support when it’s needed, especially with this back-to-school season coming up,” said William Corona, USMC Veteran.
The husband-and-wife team of Sterling and Tova Barbour head up the Veterans Advocacy Group of America. Sterling is a Vietnam veteran and sees the backpack giveaway as part of the veterans group’s mission to meet the needs of vets, their children and kids in the greater community.
“These backpacks and the supplies come from donations from various organizations that believe in us and believe in our veterans. But more importantly, they want to support our veterans,” Sterling said.
And when you look at the reaction of the children picking up their backpacks and supplies for the new school year — the mission is accomplished.
“It warms our heart. I love being of service and giving back, so it’s a joy to see all the kids here today having a great time,” Tova said.
