The Municipality of Cataño, Puerto Rico, will host its “Back to School en Cataño” initiative this Saturday, July 11, distributing 1,000 backpacks filled with essential school supplies to local students. The drive-thru event takes place from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Waterfront Convention Center, requiring attendees to present photo identification and proof of residency.
Event Logistics and Requirements
To receive a backpack, residents must provide proof of residency in Cataño, such as a recent water or electricity bill, along with a valid photo ID. The event utilizes a drive-thru format at the Centro de Convenciones en el Frente Marítimo to facilitate distribution. According to municipal officials, supplies will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis until the inventory of 1,000 units is exhausted.
Municipal Investment in Student Resources
The initiative represents a total investment of approximately $53,920. Beyond standard classroom supplies, the backpacks will include a kit of sanitizing items to support student hygiene and health. This effort is part of a broader public policy led by the administration of Mayor Julio Alicea Vasallo, intended to mitigate the financial impact that back-to-school costs place on local families.
Interim Mayor María de los Ángeles Pérez Ramos noted that the program aims to ensure students begin the academic year with the tools necessary to meet their educational goals. Beyond the backpack distribution, the municipal administration recently issued 366 certificates for the purchase of school uniforms and accessories to qualified students, further expanding the support network for families in the region.
Commitment to Local Education
The municipal administration has identified education as a core priority. By providing these materials, the local government seeks to alleviate the economic burden on parents and guardians while fostering a supportive environment for the development of Cataño’s youth.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is eligible to receive a backpack? The program is intended for student residents of Cataño.
- What documents are required? Participants must present a photo ID and proof of residence, such as a utility bill.
- When and where is the event? It takes place Saturday, July 11, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Waterfront Convention Center (Centro de Convenciones en el Frente Marítimo).
- Is there a limit to the supplies? Yes, the distribution is limited to 1,000 backpacks and will continue only until the stock is exhausted.
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