MELVILLE, New York--With the start of a new school year, Henry Schein's annual Back to School program helps less fortunate children in communities across North America step into the classroom to begin the school year.
This year Henry Schein, Inc., a distributor of health-care products and services to office-based practitioners in the combined North American and European markets, furnished more than 1,500 children with new outfits for their first day of school. This included sneakers, socks, undergarments, shirts, and pants or skirts. The children also received backpacks filled with school supplies, hygiene products, and reading books of their choice.
Now in its 11th year, the Back to School initiative is part of Henry Schein Cares, the Company's global social responsibility program. Also as part of the Back To School initiative, the company donated another 700 backpacks to local community children.
"It is very rewarding for Team Schein Members to help improve the lives of children and give back to our local communities through our annual Back to School program," said Gerald A. Benjamin, executive vice president and chief administrative pfficer for Henry Schein.
Henry Schein also hosts events at each participating location where Team Schein Members meet recipient children and their families and present them with new outfits and backpacks full of supplies.
"In addition to being great fun, the Back to School program strengthens our unique Team Schein spirit and enriches the lives of everyone involved," added Benjamin.
Henry Schein hosted the first Back to School Program in 1998, distributing clothing and school supplies to 75 children identified by local social service organizations. Since that time, more than 9,000 children have participated in the program.
"Children who start the school year on an even level with their peers-properly clothed and outfitted with books, classroom supplies and other learning tools-enjoy a higher level of academic achievement and social development," said Susan Edwards, vice president for development for Family Service League.
"Henry Schein's Back-to-School program enhances the self-image of less fortunate children and increases the confidence they need to start a new school year. As a recognized 'Champion of Children,' Henry Schein provides these children with advantages that can help them succeed," she added.
In addition to donations by Team Schein Members and contributions from the company, numerous other local businesses and Henry Schein supplier partners have participated and provided valuable support the 2008 Back to School program.
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