Your story about shopping for school supplies ("The first lesson: The supply list," Aug. 11) explored ways parents approach this daunting annual task. It also underscored just how cost-prohibitive these necessities are for low-income families.

This week, volunteers from National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) will fill pencil boxes and assemble bulk supplies for 13,500 students at 27 Minneapolis public schools, helping to ensure that all students start the school year ready to learn.

To date, NCJW's Stuff for School program -- now in its 13th year -- has provided school supplies for nearly 150,000 students. We are grateful for the generosity of our supporters and corporate sponsors.

Their contributions enable us to meet this most pressing need at a cost of $5 per child -- and at no cost to students, their families and the schools.

FRANCINE GERSH, GOLDEN VALLEY