Lumberton Community Rallies too Equip Students for Success, Addresses Critical Issues
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LUMBERTON, N.C. –
As the first bell approaches on Monday, community leaders in Lumberton, North carolina, have united to ensure students in District 3 are not only prepared with school supplies but also equipped with vital knowledge and a renewed sense of community support. The initiative, spearheaded by the Lumbee Tribe and local officials, aims to address challenges facing young people in Robeson County, including the pervasive issue of substance abuse.
A Community Investment in youth
The 3rd annual back-to-school event, hosted at Roger’s Screen Printing and sporting Goods, transformed into a vibrant hub of activity. Over 100 students benefited from the outpouring of support, receiving essential school supplies, books, and nourishing food. Lively music filled the air, creating a positive and encouraging atmosphere.
But the event went beyond simply providing material goods. Recognizing the urgent need for preventative education, organizers incorporated a crucial segment focused on the dangers of drug and alcohol use. This decision was particularly poignant given Robeson County’s sobering statistics – the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services reports the county consistently experiences some of the highest opioid use and overdose rates in the state.
Law Enforcement Connects with Students
Robeson County law enforcement officers were on hand to deliver a direct and impactful message to students about the risks associated with underage drinking and drug experimentation. Officer Gregory moore, a Lumberton patrol officer, expressed his passion for engaging with youth. I love it. This is my thing!
he exclaimed. I love talking to kids, adults as well, but I do love the kids, and I think that this is something vital for them to know because they go back to school, and it will carry them on throughout school.
His presence underscored the commitment of local authorities to protecting the well-being of the community’s young people.
Beyond Supplies: Fostering a Sense of Belonging
The event’s success was driven by the dedication of elected officials, including Council Representatives Pamela Hunt and Harold Smith. Hunt emphasized the importance of demonstrating care and support to students who may be facing difficult circumstances. Somebody cares, first of all,
she stated. And we have so many children that are impacted negatively. We want to put a positive turn on that and say hey, it’s not just your parent that care about you, but you’ve got a whole community that cares about you.
Smith echoed this sentiment, highlighting the potential within District 3’s youth.We give to them so they can grow up and give back to the community the same way and grow up and be pillars in the community and that’s why today’s event is so important
he explained. Our children are very bright they just need to have the exposure as all other kids have. If they get that exposure, that knowledge, they can grow up to be anything they want to be.
Adding a practical touch, barber students from Robeson Community College volunteered their skills, providing free haircuts to help students start the school year looking and feeling confident.
