NBEA Collects Winter Clothes And School Supplies For Needy Students

Members of the New Bedford Educators Association are donating more than $5,3000 worth of coats, winter clothing, educational supplies and hygiene products to needy children in all city schools.

Karen Regan is the supervisor of school nurses in New Bedford.. She tells WBSM News, the need is there. "I've been here for 21-years and the need has drastically increased during that time. There's many children that don't have the basic needs." said Regan.

One of the donors was Ward Five City Councilor Kerry Winterson. "My mother was a teacher for 36 years at Gomes School, and she saw many kids and families who were struggling. It's very sad and no child should be cold," said Winterson.

The union received a grant from the Mass. Teachers Association, plus donations from Mayor Jon Mitchell, School Superintendent Pia Durkin, and other elected officials, and local businesses.

Students who need help are identified by teachers and school nurses. Officials say the donations will be handed out by school nurses Tuesday in all schools.