As local students prepare to return to school, the United Way of Franklin County is completing deliveries to school districts as part of its annual “Stuff the Bus” collection drive.
United Way has been coordinating collection points and bus visits since early July and has partnered with more than 40 local organizations to collect supplies, collecting more than $22,000 worth of school supplies for districts across the county. School supplies include everything from crayons and scissors to notebooks, backpacks and tissues.
School supplies donated through the United Way of Franklin County support the Chambersburg Area, Waynesboro Area, Greencastle-Antrim, Tuscarora and Fannett-Metal school districts.
Bus appearances at community events throughout the summer were organized by Friese Bus Transportation LLC and Weaver Busing LLC, with sponsorship support from Patriot Federal Credit Union, Herbruck’s and the Rotary Club of Mercersburg.
“Stuff the Bus not only helps prepare children and schools for a successful school year, but it also brings a nostalgic appeal to many of us who have spent years preparing our own children to return to school,” said Amy Hicks, executive director of United Way of Franklin County. “As a community, we prepare for each new school year with enthusiasm and hope.”
Stuff the Bus is in its 11th year this summer. The event was created by United Way of Franklin County to respond to the growing need of local schools and to ensure that area students have classroom supplies available when they arrive at school. Area businesses and residents could donate supplies to be delivered to a specific school district or simply support areas of the entire community where the need was greatest.
Although the pre-school Stuff the Bus drive concluded last week, United Way of Franklin County offers numerous opportunities to help children and the community throughout the year, including its annual community outreach drive, which begins Sept. 20, and its Winter Warmth Drive, which focuses on supporting basic needs services and takes place in January. Donations are accepted year-round and can be made through the organization’s website at www.uwfcpa.org or by calling 717-262-0015.
United Way of Franklin County supports over 20 programs annually that assist individuals and families throughout Franklin County. Last year, over 26,000 service points were provided through United Way-supported programs, including food access, literacy programs, early learning, financial stability and health.
