Lawson

THOMASVILLE — The Treehouse Children’s Advocacy Center needs help with back-to-school items for children who have been abused and/or whose cases are pending prosecution.

“The goal of the project is to offer relief of the financial burden the start of school brings, but also to provide encouragement and empowerment to children. As a result of their abuse, many children we serve suffer from anxiety, depression and low self-esteem,” said Jackla Lawson, Treehouse executive director.

Some abused children worry about going to school for fear of being bullied or teased for not having new or popular clothing or supplies, Lawson said.

“Our supplies drive makes such an impact on families each year, and we work hard to meet the needs of these deserving children,” she said.

School supplies are needed by Thursday, July 23.

This year, 150 children are on the school-needs list.

The Criminal Justice Coordinating Council provides the backpacks.

“Each backpack is waiting to be filled with supplies unique to each child’s age, school and favorite colors, Lawson said. 

Items needed are:

• Pencil cases

• Markers

• Colored pencils

• Notebooks

• Binder dividers

• Two-inch binders

• Scissors

• Highlighters

• Headphones

• Notebook paper

• Glue

• Crayons

• Index cards

• USB drives

• New clothes

• New shoes

Supplies should be dropped off at The Treehouse, 510 Gordon Ave, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. 

Items ordered online should be shipped to The Treehouse, 510 Gordon Ave., Thomasville, Georgia 31792

Senior reporter Patti Dozier can be reached at (229) 226-2400, ext. 1820