Support The GSP Back-To-School Drive
The Gina Spence Program’s [GSP] annual Each One Reach One Back-to-School Campaign in partnership with Gibbons Company has reached its halfway point, and the charity has appealed for the community to support the initiative.
A spokesperson said, “The numbers tell a sobering story: over 80% of the 300 children registered so far come from households that have experienced a major loss including incarceration, terminal illness, job loss, death, divorce, or unemployment.
“These are not just statistics. Behind each application is a child walking into a new school year carrying burdens no child should have to bear.
“One mother shared in her application that her son lost his father to violence earlier this year, while also watching his grandmother battle cancer. Another family is struggling after the breadwinner was laid off, leaving them unable to afford even the most basic school essentials.
“The Each One Reach One campaign exists for children like these providing First Day Starter Kits valued at $150 each, including uniforms, socks, undergarments, and a backpack, so every child can start the school year with confidence and dignity.
The Need:
- Fundraising Goal: $80,000 by Friday, August 22, 2025
- Funds Raised So Far: Just over $20,000
- Registration Deadline for Families in Need: Friday, August 15, 2025
- Deadline for Gently Used Uniform Donations at Gibbons Children’s Department: Wednesday, August 20, 2025 [donors receive a $10 Gibbons coupon for every $50 spent]
“This year, the campaign launched three weeks earlier than usual, raising $10,000 in its first week in July. But with hundreds more children expected to register and walk in on Distribution Day historically over 500 the need remains urgent.”
Founder’s Statement
“We’ve seen firsthand how a new uniform can change a child’s entire outlook,” said Gina Spence, Founder and Advanced Grief Recovery Specialist. “When a child walks into school on the first day wearing a fresh, clean uniform, they hold their head higher.
“They feel like they belong. For so many of the children we serve, this is the first step toward hope after loss. But we can’t do it alone. Bermuda, we need you. Whether it’s sponsoring a child, volunteering your time, or donating a gently used uniform, every act of kindness makes a difference. This is how we show our children they matter.”
The spokesperson said, “How to help:
- Donate $150 to sponsor one child’s First Day Starter Kit
- Volunteer your time for Distribution Day on Saturday, August 23, 2025
- Drop off gently used uniforms at the Gibbons Children’s Department
“To donate or sign up as a volunteer, visit www.gspcharity.com or call 296-0016.”
