Good Neighbors donates dorm room supplies to first-generation college students

Arlington Heights-based Good Neighbors Network, a community-focused, nonprofit organization, is supporting local first-generation college students through its EmpowerED: College Kickstart Program.

As a show of solidarity and support, Good Neighbors has collected and donated essential dorm room supplies to students embarking on their college journeys. Most of these students are the first in their families to attend college.

Through its EmpowerED Program, Good Neighbors Network provided new dorm room supplies such as bedding, toiletries, fans and school supplies to first-generation college students moving into on-campus housing. Good Neighbors will also send care packages to students during their first year of college.

The Good Neighbors Network recognizes the importance of a fresh start and is committed to supporting students as they navigate this exciting chapter in their lives.

Every other month Good Neighbors Network has held “Gatherings” at The Empty Corner to provide the community with an opportunity to help assemble kits for neighbors in need. The owner of The Empty Corner, Liz Schrenk, is a dedicated Good Neighbors Network board member and community advocate who believes that these “Gatherings” are a great opportunity for people to come together for a great cause.

The “Gatherings” feature a variety of activities including assembling dorm supply kits, packing food for neighbors facing food insecurity and putting together hygiene kits for local students.

The latest “Gathering” packing event for the EmpowerED Program saw local community volunteers join forces with Good Neighbors creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and shared purpose. These events welcome community members of all ages to participate, giving back to others while learning about the needs within their local community.

Volunteers packed laundry baskets with essentials such as bedding, toiletries, kitchenware, school supplies, fans, and other dorm room necessities. This collaborative effort underscored the power of community and the impact of collective action.

“We are thrilled to support these incredible students as they take this significant step in their educational journeys,” said Yeulanda Degala, executive director at Good Neighbors. “The transition to college is a pivotal moment, and having the right supplies can make a world of difference. We’re grateful to our partners for their unwavering support and dedication to this cause. Last year, we gifted 24 Dorm Room Kits through this program, and this year, we will distribute 74, demonstrating the growing need.

As the back-to-school season approaches, Good Neighbors is gearing up for its “Backpacks to the Future” program, aimed at providing school supplies to local students, with leftovers going to teachers for school supply pantries. This year the organization will donate over 400 backpacks locally with the support of its local community.

The organization is committed to ensuring that every student, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to succeed and excel in their academic pursuits.

Good Neighbors Network is a 501(c) 3 organization dedicated to assisting under-resourced students. Through collaborative efforts with schools it strives to eliminate barriers and facilitate seamless access to essential resources, fostering an environment where every student can thrive both academically and personally.

To learn more about the Good Neighbors Network and how you can support is mission visit goodneighborsnetwork.org or follow @goodneighborsnetwork on Instagram.