Bay City News
July 9, 2023
Educators and supporters early this month launched a campaign to raise money for and collect backpacks and school supplies for Santa Cruz County children getting prepared for the next school year.
The county office of education and the United Way of Santa Cruz County teamed up starting July 1 on the campaign called "stuff the bus," aiming to raise $25,000 for thousands of students in need.
Money, backpacks and supplies can be donated at designated places in the county, including all Bay Federal Credit Union branches, according to the United Way and the Santa Cruz Office of Education.
"Stuff the Bus is about more than school supplies," said Santa Cruz County Superintendent of Schools Faris Sabbah in a statement. "It's about providing every student with the opportunity to step into the classroom ready to achieve and thrive, regardless of individual circumstances."
Backpacks are also distributed throughout the school year on an as-needed basis. Students in the Pajaro Valley received backpacks following the recent winter storms and flooding.
Over 2,800 Santa Cruz County students face hardships including homelessness that could dampen their efforts toward academic achievement.
"Amidst the devastating aftermath of the winter storms, now more than ever has Stuff the Bus been a requested service to support students and their families," said Keisha Browder, CEO of United Way of Santa Cruz County, in a statement. "Each pencil, each notebook, each act of collecting school supplies is a small and mighty step towards rebuilding their futures."
The "stuff the bus" campaign culminates with a stuff-a-thon August 5 when volunteers will fill backpacks with supplies.
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Link to SF Gate Article: https://www.sfgate.com/news/bayarea/article/stuff-the-bus-campaign-aims…