Huntington Bank, United Way team up for book-bag giveaway

Staff report

YOUNGSTOWN

A joint partnership of Huntington Bank and United Way has produced more than 1,000 book bags for students in need throughout Mahoning, Trumbull, Columbiana and Mercer counties.

Schools that identify students in need will receive the book bags for the 2017-18 school year.

Roxann Sebest, United Way marketing and communications director, said the best part of the giveaway is seeing the students receive the book bags. “They’re just so excited and ready to get back to school, and it’s nice that they don’t have to worry,” she said.

Huntington Bank Regional President William C. Shivers said he likes being part of a community effort to give back.

“We are just meeting a need,” he said. “Unfortunately this is a kind of need, but it’s nice to get everyone in the same playing field. The students have enough pressure starting school.”

Other partners include Great Clips, Cocca’s Pizza and 21 WFMJ-TV, The Vindicator’s broadcast partner.