A back-to-school event held on August 15, 2025, in Reading, Pennsylvania, provided essential supplies and services for local children preparing to return to school. Organized by Manny Guzman Jr., the state representative for the 127th Legislative District, the event featured free backpacks, water bottles, haircuts, and food for families in need.
Guzman, who grew up in Reading, understands the challenges faced by many families. Raised by a single mother of five, he recalls the long lines for assistance that were a common part of his childhood. “It’s important to me because of my lived experience as a kid growing up in Reading,” he stated. “I see myself in a lot of these kids, and I see it as a moral obligation to help them.”
Joining Guzman was Eddie Moran, the mayor of Reading, who co-hosted the event. Moran also experienced financial hardships during his upbringing, particularly after the passing of his father. Reflecting on his childhood, he noted, “Sometimes it wasn’t easy for her to get us ready for the first day of school.”
Moran’s commitment to education extends beyond personal experience. As a former member of the Reading School Board, he recognized the struggles many students faced daily. “I would see kids showing up for school not prepared,” he explained. “In Reading, I want to show our community that we’re there for each other. You know the saying, ‘It takes a village’? This is a prime example of that.”
The event attracted a large crowd, with parents, grandparents, and students lining up along the 600 block of Penn Street. In addition to school supplies and haircuts, attendees enjoyed free food and access to various informational stands provided by local service organizations. This initiative not only equipped children for the upcoming school year but also fostered a spirit of community support and collaboration among residents.
Overall, the back-to-school event exemplifies the ongoing efforts by local leaders to address educational disparities and provide essential resources for families in Reading. The commitment from Guzman and Moran highlights the importance of community engagement in ensuring that every child has the tools they need to succeed.
