Assistance League Southwest Washington hosts back-to-school shopping event

HUDSONS BAY — Assistance League Southwest Washington, as part of its JUST Because… philanthropic program, partnered with Grand Central Fred Meyer for the league’s annual back-to-school shopping spree for local children in foster care. On Aug. 18, 19 and 20, 16 volunteer league members helped 113 kids and their guardians find new clothes for school. Sometimes these clothes were the first new clothes the kids had owned. Assistance League spent $22,000 after a discount from Fred Meyer. Jeanne Lightburn, the program chair, and all the volunteers said the smiles from the kids were well worth that and much more.