This summer, the YMCA of Greenwich’s Running Start program gave 125 local children more than just clothes and school supplies to start the school year—it gave them confidence, choice, and the knowledge that caring adults in their community are rooting for them.

Now in its fourth year, Running Start has grown steadily from 35 participants in 2022 to 75 in 2023, 100 in 2024, and 125 in 2025, reflecting the program’s expanding reach and the generosity of YMCA donors and the community. Each child received a $150 gift card to Kohl’s, a backpack filled with school supplies from Neighbor to Neighbor, and a commemorative t-shirt.

What makes Running Start special is more than what is in the backpack or in the shopping bags. Children are paired with trained, background-

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