Cornerstones Seeks to Outfit 3,500 Area Students for School

The start of school may be more than a month away, but Reston nonprofit Cornerstones is working on ensuring more than 3,500 students have what they need on the first day.

Cornerstones, working with partner Kids R First, has kicked off its annual backpack drive. The organization is seeking new backpacks for Reston and Herndon students who are Cornerstones’ clients or who receive free or reduced lunch.

Cornerstones is urging individuals, corporations and organizations to get involved to make the backpack drive a success

Here is what is needed.

• New backpacks with no logos or wheels.
• High school size: 20″ x 14″ 7″ (the area of greatest need)
• Middle school size: 18″ x 13″ x 6″
• Elementary school size: 16 ” x 12″ x 5″

Backpacks can be purchased online at Walmart or Amazon, with free shipping directly to Cornerstones.

Additionally, Cornerstones is requesting donations of new underwear for elementary age children. Payless Shoes gift cards ($25) are also welcome so Cornerstones’ clients can get a new pair of shoes.

Donors can pledge online the number of backpacks they would like to donate.

Groups planning a collection can email [email protected] to request a personalized flyer to distribute.

Backpacks should be delivered to Cornerstones’ offices, 11150 Sunset Hills Rd., Suite 210, Reston VA 20190 Aug. 8-12, 9 to 5 p.m.

Virginia tax free school shopping on backpacks will also be in effect Aug. 5 to 7.

Questions? Contact Cornerstones at 571-323-9568 or [email protected].