CORNING, CA – The Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians, through the Paskenta Nomlaki Foundation, continued its 21st annual Back-to-School Project by hosting the highly anticipated “Great Shopping Day” event. A total of 131 pre-qualified students, from kindergarten through 12th grade in Tehama County, participated in a day of shopping for brand-new clothing and received essential resources to help them start the school year confident and prepared.
In addition to shopping for clothing, each student was provided a backpack filled with school supplies, along with resources for free haircuts and sports physicals, ensuring they’re ready not only academically, but socially and physically as well.
For many local families, the start of a new school year can bring financial challenges. The Back-to-School Project aims to ease that burden, helping students focus on learning.
“These children are the future of our community, and every backpack, every pair of shoes, every haircut, and every sports physical is a reminder that they are valued,” said Tribal Chairman, Brandin Paya. “With rising costs and economic pressures, we’re honored to lead this effort. We hope this event brings relief to families and joy to the students.”
This project was originally founded in 2004 by local resident Kim Berry, who had a mission to help children in the community begin each school year with pride, dignity and a feeling of self-worth. For two decades, Berry led the project with care and dedication, growing its reach and impact throughout Tehama County.
“I have loved serving the families of our community and was looking to pass the project on to a meaningful organization who would love it as I have,” said Berry. “I’m grateful the tribe has taken it on and will carry it into the future. After 21 years, I’m so happy to see it continue with care and purpose.”
This marks the first year the program is being operated by the Paskenta Nomlaki Foundation. With rising costs and continued challenges facing many families in the region, the tribe remains committed to the project’s mission of supporting students as they return to school. The Back-to-School Project will continue next year through the Paskenta Nomlaki Foundation.
