ROCKINGHAM — Two Richmond County Schools buses will be parked in front of Walmart next week, waiting to be packed with school supplies.
From 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Aug. 5, the United Way of Richmond County and other community volunteers will be collecting those supplies for the 17th annual Stuff the Bus campaign.
“Our goal remains the same each year: to help children in need return to school without additional obstacles, equipped with the necessary tools to succeed,” said Michelle Parrish, executive director of UWRC.
“Not having basic school supplies should never stand in the way of a child’s ability to learn and grow,” Parrish added. “This campaign helps us support local students so they can return to school confident and prepared.”
This year’s campaign has 56 sponsors, and UWRC will have help stuffing from several local businesses and organizations, including: the Richmond Senior High School Beta Club; REV Federal Credit Union; Enviva; the Richmond County Chamber of Commerce; Walmart; Planet Fitness; and the Richmond County Partnership for Children.
In addition to monetary contributions, those wishing to help can also directly donate supplies:
There are also several drop-off locations throughout the community:
All items are distributed to the schools in the district and given out by counselors or social workers to students who have been identified as being in need, according to Parrish.
Last year’s campaign helped provide more than 48,000 supplies to local students.
For more information or to coordinate your donation, contact Parrish at 910-997-2173, 910-206-2909, or email michelleparrish@bellsouth.net.
