Three Bermudian university students have used the summer to help provide youngsters living in the West End with back-to-school essentials for the upcoming school year.

Andreaz Glasgow, Malay Robinson and Christopher Jackson gave away backpacks loaded with notebooks and writing materials to children living in Sandys.

Mr Glasgow, who is studying at Long Island University in New York, said he started the initiative for one simple reason: “I saw the need.”

He added: “I wanted to pour back into the village that has poured so much into me.”

The three are channelling their efforts through the Bermuda Outreach Community Foundation.

They hope to offer about 160 backpacks, each loaded with packs of crayons, pencils and pens, as well as a sharpener, erasers, a two-pocket folder, a glue stick, a highlighter, a pencil case, a 12-inch ruler and a 70-page spiral notebook.

Mr Glasgow said that he and his friends organised the giveaway because they wanted to bridge a “gap” growing between those with funds and those without.

He said that “the ever-growing cost of living in Bermuda” was widening this gap and adding to the struggles of many.

Mr Glasgow added that he was driven by a belief in doing good regardless of whether or not he received recognition.

He said: “I hope that, by helping, whether big or small, I can change a student’s or family’s life in a positive way.”

Mr Glasgow is studying for a dual Bachelor of Arts degrees in political science and international relations and diplomacy.

He explained that he chose the combined studies because “I believe political science and business go hand-in-hand”.

He added: “I am passionate about policy and being a change agent within my community and any organisation I work with.

“My ultimate goal is to return to Bermuda after my studies.

“While I aim to earn my doctorate, right now I’m focused on completing my masters and deciding on my next steps from there.”

Ms Robinson, who hopes to become an English teacher, said that she joined the cause because she viewed education as “the most impactful pillar” through which to make change.

She explained: “This drive allows me to give back to the system that gave so much to me and my family.

“I want to alleviate some of the financial burdens on parents during back-to-school time and highlight the importance of giving back to the institutions that support us.”

Ms Robinson added: “I want my future students to know that I care about them even before they enter my classroom and that they always have someone who believes in them.”

Mr Jackson, 21, a recent graduate from Eastern Michigan University, said: “I’m doing this because, working with young people, I truly see the need to give back and be that shining star they may not have in their life.

“Little things like having resources such as pens, paper and a backpack can have a big impact on someone’s educational journey.”

Mr Jackson’s studies had been rooted in psychology and mental health.

He interned with the mental health firm Solstice after graduating several in-person and online treatment avenues for young people.

At present, Mr Jackson works at the Department of Child and Family Services.

He plans to pursue a doctorate in clinical psychology with a concentration in educational research.

Mr Jackson said: “I want to make a positive impact on the young people of Bermuda and contribute to making a better community for all.”

Anyone who would like to receive a backpack can do so by filling out an online form.

On collection, a limited number of gifts will be provided by Mr Glasgow and a pair of school shoes was donated by Ms Robinson and her family.

• For more information, e-mail bermudacommunityoutreach@gmail.com