For Immediate Release

Monday, Aug. 21, 2017

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Greater Lawrence Technical School Senior Leads Back to School Drive for Community

ANDOVER — Superintendent John Lavoie is pleased to announce that Greater Lawrence Technical School senior Jennifer Peralta organized a back to school supplies drive for students in need, sponsored by Raytheon. 

On Wednesday, Aug. 16, from 1-4 p.m., Peralta, who is originally from the Dominican Republic and now resides in Lawrence, attended the 5th Annual Resource Fair at Campagnone Common to give out 528 backpacks and notebooks to families.

The fair, which is put on by the Greater Lawrence Community Action Council, brings together Lawrence businesses and nonprofits, which work to educate families on resources and programs available in the community.

Peralta, who had received donated school supplies back when she lived in the Dominican Republic, wanted to provide a similar opportunity to families in Lawrence.

“I’ve seen how beneficial donations can be for families in the Dominican Republic, so I wanted to recreate this experience for Lawrence residents who are in need,” Peralta said. “I’m so thankful for Raytheon’s contribution and support. Together we were able to make a positive difference in so many children’s lives.”

To accomplish her mission, Peralta worked with the Family Services of the Merrimack Valley’s Stand and Deliver initiative– an academic mentoring program that matches students with volunteers from companies like Raytheon, New Balance, Schneider Electric and Pfizer. 

Peralta is a participant in the program at Raytheon, and reached out to members, who were happy to provide her with a $2,500 donation.

“We were pleased to partner with Family Services of Merrimack Valley and Jennifer to help her achieve her mission of giving back to a community that has done so much for her,” said Sam Sullivan, community relations manager at Raytheon.

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