J&L Cos. hosted a Build-a-Backpack event on Aug. 15, collecting hundreds of backpacks and school supplies for students of the Gray Charter School in downtown Newark. — All photos courtesy: J&L
By Joshua Burd
More than 150 students in downtown Newark will start the school year with new backpacks and classroom supplies thanks in large part to an initiative by J&L Cos.
The family-owned and -operated real estate firm, which is based in the city, said it teamed with the Gray Charter School last week to host a Build-a-Backpack event. That included mobilizing its corporate, management and leasing teams to collect and distribute hundreds of backpacks and classroom supplies, part of an afternoon that also featured a bouncy house and ice cream for students and families, creating a festive community atmosphere.
Among those on hand for the Aug. 15 event were J&L employees and representatives of the National Blue Ribbon K-8 school, including Assistant Director Christopher Pringle.
“We’re excited to partner with schools like the Gray Charter School, renowned for its exceptional academic program and educational leadership, to ensure the students in our community are set up for success,” said Gabriel Lopez, vice president of J&L Cos. “Thank you to the J&L team, Mr. Pringle and all the administrative staff at The Gray Charter School for their leadership and commitment to Newark.”
SLIDESHOW: J&L Cos.' Build-a-Backpack event
Pringle said the support was crucial in an economic climate in which many families find it difficult to cover their increasing costs, including school supplies.
“Children having the necessary supplies and materials that they need is essential to their success in school,” he said. “Our community partners at the J&L Companies have recognized this need and have provided their support to our families in ensuring that all of our students have what they need to be successful in school, and to help lighten the financial burdens on our families. J&L Companies has supported the Gray Charter School and our families on numerous occasions over the years, and we are truly grateful for their support.”
The event is among J&L’s many annual contributions to the Newark community, where it has operated and owned property for decades. The firm said its own Katelynn Rodriguez, who has deep roots in the city, played a central role in organizing the Build-A-Backpack event, from securing supplies to coordinating volunteers.
“It was so rewarding to help put this together,” she said. “Being born and raised in Newark, I find giving back to the community in this way deeply fulfilling. I’m beyond proud to be part of a company that prioritizes these efforts in the city. Newark is not just our headquarters — it’s home, so doing our part just makes sense.”
Nonprofit organizations interested in partnering with J&L should contact Rodriguez at [email protected].
