Nurses from Hospital of Central Connecticut's N-3 help make Friendship Center children's first day of school special.  Photo (L to R): Monica Lord, Karem Vega, Candace Rinaldi and Monica Hayes.

Few school days are more exciting for children than the first day in a new grade and, for some, in a whole new school environment.  Transitions are smoother and students' "cool factors" increase substantially when the kids can sport new book bags of which they are proud. 
     Knowing this, the nurses of N-3 Community Outreach Committee at the Hospital of Central Connecticut donated 26 book bags for children whose parents are receiving services at the Friendship Service Center.  The book bags were filled with grade-appropriate supplies and a few extra surprises for each elementary and middle-school girl and boy.   The N-3 nurses have also volunteered together in the soup kitchen and contributed toiletries for the use of shelter residents.
     Likewise, another 17 book bags were prepared and donated by employees in Aetna's National Accounts Sponsor Services.  This group of Aetna employees has been providing back-to-school book bags and supplies for Friendship Center children for many years.
     A big "Hi Five" to all of these donors for the love and caring you have shown to these very special kids and their parents.