As a way of assisting parents of Government Primary One students, the Bermuda Junior Service League has donated school supplies through its Stuff the Bus programme.

This is the sixth year that the Bermuda Junior Service League (BJSL) has purchased over 500 sturdy pencil cases and recommended school supplies to give these students an easier start to what can be a daunting experience for young students, said BJSL project chairperson for Stuff the Bus, Tamara Blacquier.

"Imagine starting school for the first time, nervous about whether you will have any friends, what the teacher will be like or if you have the right supplies for school," asked Ms Blacquier.

But thanks to the Bermuda Junior Service League, P1 students at Government schools can rest easier.

BJSL members delivered the pencils cases to the Government Primary Schools across the Island during the first week of school.

"Thankful P1 teachers were on hand to receive these pencil cases and distribute them to the students in their classes," she added.

"This is a fantastic project and one I believe helps the most important part of our community. Providing the P1 students with the necessary school supplies allows everyone to start the year on equal footing and concentrate on the joy of learning."

In addition to supplying the materials to P1 students, this year's efforts was extended to include more than 70 children supported by the Bermuda Prison Family Fellowship programme and more than 20 children supported by the Physical Abuse Centre.

The objective of the BJSL's "Stuff the Bus" campaign is to supply the required school supplies to all Primary One students in the Government school system across the Island.

"This effort not only supports the students in their learning, but also aides the teachers in teaching and supports families in the preparation of their children that are embarking upon their school activities and studies," she said.

"The Bermuda Junior Service League is an organisation of women committed to promoting volunteerism, developing the potential of women, and improving the community in which we live.

"Its purpose is educational and charitable. Members contribute more than 2,500 hours to Bermuda annually."

For more information on membership to the Bermuda Junior Service League, please visit www.bjsl.bm