Drivers Lineup At 3 A.M. For WDSU’s School Supply Drive

At 3 o’clock in the morning in New Orleans, drivers lined up to receive free school supplies from WDSU, Hearst’s NBC affiliate there, as part of the station’s Student Connection School Supply Drive, even though the start time wasn’t until 9.

The New Orleans Police Department was onsite to assist with traffic flow as the lines of cars stretched for several blocks throughout the morning.

This proves the dire need in Southeast Louisiana for assistance.

On Saturday, Aug. 8, WDSU partnered with United Way of Southeast Louisiana, Cox and Walmart to donate 3,000 backpacks filled with school supplies to local students.

The supply drive was part of WDSU’s overall Reopening Schools day of coverage, dedicated to informing students, parents and teachers.

All morning long, WDSU provided the latest information regarding the 2020-2021 school year and aired a half-hour special presentation, Reopening Schools: The Real Test, examining the unique challenges students, parents and teachers face as they navigate the COVID-19 crisis.

“We know so many in Southeast Louisiana are challenged right now,” said Joel Vilmenay, WDSU’s general manager.

“It’s not only our responsibility but our privilege to help our neighbors as we all continue to navigate through these very difficult times. I would also like to thank our partners Cox and Walmart who immediately answered the call to assist us with purchasing and providing supplies to help our students prepare for the 2020-2021 school year.”

“Cox was delighted to brighten the day of thousands of area school children and prepare them with the tools they need for a successful school year,” said Kevin Monroe, New Orleans market vice president for Cox. “Now more than ever, it’s important that we come together to help our neighbors.”

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