8News partners with Papa Johns and YMCA Bright Beginnings to help students get back to school

Aug 28, 2025 - 21:25

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8News partners with Papa Johns and YMCA Bright Beginnings to help students get back to school

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- 8News is Your Back to School Headquarters, and with the new school year officially underway, the "Bright Beginnings" school supply drive, a collaboration between 8News, Papa Johns and the YMCA, is in its final push to collect donations for local students.

The drive aims to help children from families in need start the academic year with confidence and all the necessary tools to succeed. The need is significant, with many families struggling to afford the supplies their children require.

"Our goal in the YMCA is to make sure that kids get a good start to school," said Lisa Ramirez, Chief Impact and Advocacy Officer of the YMCA of Greater Richmond. "We want kids to be engaged in the classroom, and there's no better feeling than being able to help a child or a family that is in need. And you've got brand-new school supplies, a brand-new backpack, a brand-new coat [and] brand-new sneakers. You're ready to go."

In addition to physical supplies, monetary donations are also welcome and are used to purchase essential items like clothing and shoes. The drive provides a crucial opportunity for the community to make a tangible difference in a child's educational journey.

The supply drive provides an opportunity for Papa Johns to invest in the education and well-being of young people in the communities they serve.

"As a locally owned and operated franchise, we pride ourselves in being true community partners," said Alyssa Weaton, Papa Johns Assistant Marketing Manager. "So, when we were approached by the YMCA to jump on this project, of course we were super excited to do so."

For those with school supplies to donate, head to any of the following Papa Johns locations during normal operating hours to donate: