CPCU Sets New Record with Backpack Drive in Partnership with UCFS Healthcare
NORWICH, Conn — CorePlus Credit Union (CPCU), in partnership with UCFS Healthcare, continued its commitment to supporting local students by achieving record-high numbers in its annual Backpack and School Supply Drive. The 2025 initiative collected and distributed 603 backpacks filled with essential school supplies, significantly higher than in 2024 (401) and 2023 (114).
It’s a longstanding value at CPCU that all children deserve access to essential school supplies to be better prepared for class, more confident in their abilities, and more engaged in learning. Unfortunately, many families across Connecticut continue to face financial challenges that make it difficult to afford these essentials. This annual drive helps close that gap while easing the burden on teachers, who often purchase supplies for their students out of pocket.
Donations were accepted between June 23 and August 1, 2025, at all seven CorePlus branch locations across Eastern Connecticut, as well as at UCFS Healthcare sites. The distribution event took place on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at UCFS’s Edward & Mary Lord Family Health Center located at 47 Town Street in Norwich.
“The perennially growing success of this event is driven by the generosity of our Credit Union members, employees, sponsors, and community,” said CPCU Marketing Manager Eric Blackburn. “Every child deserves to start the school year with the tools they need to succeed. This year, the substantial impact of this event is a reflection of the power of community coming together for a shared purpose.”
Sponsorships from Scient Federal Credit Union, Champagne Motor Car Company, Troiano Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM, and Gates GMC provided critical funding for backpacks and supplies. CorePlus Credit Union also matched the first 50 backpack donations, ensuring at least 100 local children would begin the school year fully equipped.
This year’s effort was made even more meaningful as CorePlus and Scient prepare to join forces through an upcoming merger, pending membership approval. CorePlus is grateful to Scient for their enthusiastic participation and shared commitment to serving our community. Members of both credit unions can look forward to an expanded product and service suite, a larger branch network, and the increased ability to provide ongoing support to our communities through monetary, volunteer, and educational efforts.
The August 6, 2025, distribution event was broadcast live on Full Power Radio (Jammin’ 107.7) and featured family-friendly activities, giveaways, and resources provided by numerous community organizations, including:
- CorePlus Credit Union
- UCFS Healthcare
- Scient Federal Credit Union
- Otis Library
- Rose City Learning Center
- Norwich Bully Busters
- East Great Plains Volunteer Fire Company Inc.
- Jewish Family Services of Greenwich
- Read to Grow
- Double Daggers Tattoo
- Latinos for Educational Advocacy and Diversity (L.E.A.D.)
- Uncas Health District
- Wondr Nation
- Norwich Public Schools
- American Heart Association
- Yantic Volunteer Fire Department
- Norwich Police Department
- Operation Lifesaver, Inc.
About CorePlus Credit Union
CorePlus Credit Union is a federally chartered, member owned, not for profit cooperative. We are a not for profit, not for charity, but for service credit union founded in 1936. With a strong emphasis on community development and member well-being, CorePlus Credit Union is dedicated to creating financial wellness for all. For more information, visit coreplus.org.