105 preschoolers between the ages of three and four attending the Paterson Family Center, a New Jersey Community Development Corporation (NJCDC) run preschool program, received free backpacks jam-packed with supplies on Friday morning to get a strong academic start.

“This event really helped our youngest students become more excited about learning and going to school,” stated Bob Guarasci, chief and founder of NJCDC.

Guarasci credited Wayne-based Valley National Bank for its donation that made the backpack giveaway possible.

“Thank you to Valley National Bank for making this event possible, and to David Berninger, Martin Vergara II, and Corporal Robert Scott for providing these children and their families with an extra boost,” Guarasci said.

NJCDC board members Berninger, Vergara, and Passaic County Sheriff’s Commander Robert Scott greeted the young students with cheers, encouragements, and high-fives during their first day of preschool.

The three handed each of the program’s 105 students a free backpack containing pencils, crayons, a ruler, and a book.