Organizations help families get back to school Published Aug. 20, 2019 By Tiffany Kelley, Sheppard Spouses' Club president 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas – Service members and their families gathered at the Madrigal Youth Center Aug. 10, 2019, for the Back to School Brigade hosted by Sheppard Spouses’ Club. The free event provided military families in the local Sheppard AFB area school supplies for all grade levels. Lori Bell, a SSC advisor, said the event not only provide school supplies for families, but it also provided a convenient way to get the supplies they needed without having to worry about the cost. “Parents with multiple kids in school know how much of a hassle it can be to gather lists and stay on budget,” she said. “I am so happy to be part of an organization that sees a need and fills it so efficiently.” Three private organizations – Sheppard Spouses’ Club, Sheppard 1st Sergeant’s Council, and Sheppard Parent Advisory Board – pooled their resources and volunteers to make this an outstanding event for Sheppard Families. More than 5,000 items were donated and more than 225 military children were able to receive free school supplies. “This really helped our family,” said Kenzie Broussard, 82nd Security Force Squadron spouse. “With these free school supplies, we were able to purchase new school clothes, shoes and other items without worrying about the additional costs. I truly appreciate the spouses’ club and everyone helping make this happen here at Sheppard.” The Sheppard Spouses’ Club brought this event back to Sheppard for 2019 and plan to continue supporting families with other outreaches throughout the year. “By supporting families, we see a big jump in morale and I want to be part of that with the SSC,” said Kristie Mimms, SSC Helping Hands chairwoman. “So many families struggle throughout the year, and by offering this, we hope it takes a bit of the sting out of back to school time.” For more information on how to get involved, email ssc.clubinfo@gmail.com.