Due to the health and economic crisis caused by COVID-19, United Way of Northwest Louisiana is unable to hold their annual Fill-The-Bus events with Wal-Mart this summer. This year, they are encouraging organizations and companies to host a workplace school supply drive to help ensure local students receive the school supplies they need to be prepared for the upcoming school year.
Participating companies and organizations will be provided with a container for contributors to drop off their school supplies. All school supply drives will be held through the month of September, and the containers will be retrieved the first week of October.
“This year has been an even greater struggle for many of our families to buy their children’s school supplies and, consequently, a greater burden on our teachers, who so often fill the gaps. Bossier Schools is beyond grateful to United Way of Northwest Louisiana for stepping in and stepping up to extend the Fill the Bus campaign. Our community is second to none, and we appreciate everyone’s consideration of support,” said Bossier Schools Public Liaison, Sonja Bailes.
Because of the pandemic, the number of school supply drives have been drastically reduced this year. This drive will benefit thousands of elementary, middle, and high school students identified as ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) and/or families struggling to make ends meet throughout Northwest Louisiana. According to the most recent ALICE Report, the percentage of Northwest Louisiana ALICE households has increased to 55%. This year’s school supply drives are more critical now than ever.
“We’re so appreciative for all of the support in the community for the neediest scholars in our transformation zone schools. Our Fill the Bus partnership with United Way over the past three years has helped countless families and classrooms. On behalf of Dr. Goree, our principals, teachers, and families, thank you for your unconditional giving to our scholars. No gift is too big or too small, and each gift will help out over 6,000 students,” said Community Engagement Specialist, Reneé Ellis.
If your company or organization would like to participate by becoming a Fill the Bus partner, please contact, Community Engagement and Creative Coordinator, Harper McKnight, at (318)606-6601 or sign up by visiting https://unitedwaynwla.org/schoolsupplydrive-volunteer/. The deadline to participate is August 31.