WESTPORT — With the start of a new academic year a few weeks away, the town’s annual Back-to-School assistance program has special urgency this year because of greater needs caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Organized by the town’s Department of Human Services, the program “offers hope to local families who lack the financial means to purchase back-to-school supplies and provide reliable after-school childcare for their children,” Annette D’Augelli, the department’s family program coordinator, said in a statement.

This year, D’Augelli said, the agency has seen “an increasing number of families seeking services. Our parents and children have endured distance learning, unstable employment, social isolation, and mental health challenges.

“Many households are experiencing un- and under-employment, increased housing expenses, and food insecurity, affecting the health and wellness of children whose parents are having trouble affording essentials for their families,” she added.

In the past, the DHS Back-to-School program provided basic supplies to families in need of assistance.

Because of the pandemic, D’Augelli said, needs this year go beyond the usual backpacks, pens and pencils. Donations will help “reinforce a child’s sense of hope and stability by ensuring that they have the tools they need to excel in school and have opportunities to participate in afterschool activities so their parents can focus on getting back to work.”

Hundreds of Westport families lack sufficient resources to provide their children with enrichment opportunities, according to the DHS statement. The program will help income-eligible families shop for school supplies, but also aims to provide financial aid to enable youngsters attend afterschool programs.

 Tax-deductible donations, in the form of cash or gift cards (for Staples, Target, Walmart, etc.) are being sought for the program. 

Westport Human Services’ online donation portal — “We Care Westport” — is at www.westportct.gov/donate. Click on “Family to Family programs —Seasonal Program — Back to School.” 

Contributions are also accepted by mail. Checks should be payable to: “Town of Westport/DHS Family Programs,” at 110 Myrtle Ave., Westport, CT 06880. 

Call 203-341-1050 or email humansrv@westportct.gov for more information or to speak confidentially with a social worker.