Going back to school should be an exciting time for kids, but for so many families, it also brings financial stress. Living and working along the El Paso-Juárez border, I’ve seen firsthand how hard it can be to afford even the most basic school supplies.

This summer, I’m starting a small fundraiser to help ease that burden. The goal is to collect donations to purchase essentials such as notebooks, crayons, pencils, markers, and folders - especially for the children who cross the international bridge from Juárez to El Paso every school day.

Thousands of children wake up before sunrise and wait in long lines just to cross into the U.S. for school. That kind of commitment deserves support. Even if it's something small, I want to help make their first day a little brighter.

Here’s what I’m hoping to do:

Between now and the end of July, I’ll be collecting funds and supplies so that by August 4th (the first day of school for EPISD), I can hand out what we’ve gathered. Some kids may already have a few things, but school supplies go fast - and a little extra can go a long way.

This is my first time organizing something like this, and I’m figuring it out as I go - but my heart is fully in it. Every dollar and every item donated will go straight toward getting these kids what they need.

If you’re not able to give, I’d love it if you shared this campaign with others. Anything helps.

Thanks for being part of something good.

With love and gratitude,

Teresa