Long Island parents struggling to support their families are getting a little extra help as the new school year approaches.

The Family Service League of Suffolk, located on East 5th Street in Huntington Station, is easing back-to-school woes by providing supplies to nearly 600 youngsters. Organizers say the sixth year of the program has drawn the most parents to date. League member Lisa Jamison says many families find it difficult to afford good school supplies after paying the high cost of shelter, food and clothing.

Many parents say the program is a lifesaver. Valerie Ford, a single mother of three, says the supplies she gets would easily cost her $100. The Family Service League has a "Back-to-School Boutique" scheduled for Wednesday in Bay Shore and two more in Riverhead on September 1 and 5.

Related Information: Family Service League Bay Shore program - 631-647-3100 Riverhead program - 631-369-0105