Donated school supplies that are being collected at Ocho Cafe in West Hartford will be distributed to students in Greater Hartford communities.

Submitted

Jewish Family Services (JFS) in West Hartford will be the recipient of school supply donations made at Ocho Cafe restaurant during their 2019 Back To School Supply Drive.

From Aug. 1-8, patrons of the local Mexican restaurant can donate new school supplies and other classroom materials by placing their donations in the in-restaurant collection bin.

Students wish lists include basic school supplies, such as paper, crayons, scissors, pencils, pens, glue, markers, folders, and erasers, as well as other items used in classrooms every day such as tissues and hand sanitizers.

Ocho cafe is a West Hartford-based family-run Mexican restaurant focused on bringing Mexican favorites that showcase the flavors south of the border, featuring award-winning dishes, signature margaritas, and only the finest ingredients.

“For the first time, JFS is teaming up with Ocho Cafe to provide free school supplies to economically disadvantaged school-children,” said Pia Rosenberg Toro JFS President of the board. “All supplies collected will be given to JFS clients who are children in need in Greater Hartford.”

“We are thrilled to partner with JFS and  show our community commitment,” said Noé Ruelas, owner of Ocho Cafe. “With the help of our patrons and employees as well as the West Hartford community at large, we can all work together to help students start the school year prepared to succeed.”

“This is a meaningful annual project for us, added Rosenberg Toro. “When families are struggling to feed and clothe their children, school supplies are another added expense and we are proud to help alleviate that stressor.”

Thousands of students in Greater Hartford will return to school this year without basic school supplies. Last year, JFS was able to fill 100 backpacks and distributed  them to students throughout the Greater Hartford communities.

“Children should have every opportunity to succeed in the classroom, not be held back by circumstances over which they have no control, and JFS Back To School Supply Drive helps to provide those opportunities,” added Ruelas.

JFS and Ocho Cafe are hoping the public will join them to collect supplies for students in need in Greater Hartford and help students feel equipped, confident, and motivated to succeed in the classroom. 

Supplies will be collected inside Ocho Cafe from Aug. 1-8 inside Ocho Cafe. Patrons who donate supplies for the JFS 2019 Back to School Drive will receive 10 percent off their dining bill.

For more information, visit jfshartford.org.

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