West Chester, PA (July 6, 2026) – As families begin to prepare for the upcoming school year, State Senator Carolyn Comitta’s office is a drop-off site for backpack donations to help children served by The Crime Victims Center of Chester County (CVC).
“As we approach the start of a new school year, we’re helping ensure kids are ready to hit the ground running on the first day with new backpacks and school supplies,” said Comitta, a former public-school teacher who serves on the Senate Education Committee. “If you are able, please consider supporting the families served by the good work at the CVC by donating a backpack.”
Now, through the beginning of August, donations of new backpacks are being accepted in the collection box on the first floor of Comitta’s West Chester district office at 17 E. Gay Street. The building is open Monday through Friday during regular office hours.
“Going back to school shopping was always my favorite part of going ‘Back to School’ and it’s so much fun to watch our families get to shop and get excited for the new school year,” said Christine Zaccarelli, Chief Executive Officer of the Crime Victims Center of Chester County. “We are really grateful to Senator Comitta and her team for their help with this event for so many years!”
Research shows that having the right school supplies directly boosts student confidence and mental well-being, reducing school-related anxiety. For many students, especially those in underserved communities, being properly equipped and prepared means they can settle into routines quickly, participate more actively, and feel a sense of belonging and inclusion in class.
For 53 years, The Crime Victims Center of Chester County, Inc. has provided services to thousands of victims in Chester County and is the designated provider of services for sexual violence victims within Chester County.
The organization has two hotlines available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for community members in need of assistance. Victims of sexual assault can dial (610) 692-7273 and victims of all other crimes can dial (610) 692-7420.
For more information on CVC, visit cvcofcc.org
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