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The back-to-school season can place a tremendous burden on families experiencing lost wages and looming evictions, as they are forced to choose between putting food on the table and making sure their kids have the tools needed for educational success.
To meet the need, The Salvation Army is working with Walmart to collect school supplies for 200 local children in need during the annual Stuff the Bus event set for Friday-Sunday at University Town Centre and 4H Road Walmart stores.
The Salvation Army’s Stuff the Bus school supply drive will happen at more than 4,500 Walmart stores across the country. Shoppers can purchase and drop off items at collection bins at the front of each store or search their local Salvation Army’s online Registry for Good to donate supplies online with just a few quick clicks.
“There are about 12,000 children heading back to school in Morgantown this year, and 40.2% of them are struggling to make ends meet,” said Lt. Sheldon, of The Salvation Army Morgantown. “By donating school supplies for a child in need, you can empower families to start the school year well and achieve success in the future. It’s the boost of confidence they need when getting back to normal after a challenging year.”
Walmart and The Salvation Army have partnered for more than 30 years to meet community needs through a range of social services, helping individuals and families overcome poverty and economic hardships.
Since the start of the pandemic, The Salvation Army of Morgantown has provided more than 30,000 meals, and $18,716 in financial assistance to local families and individuals. In addition, The Salvation Army provides day camp, after-school programs, and extracurricular activities to help kids and families succeed.
With children returning to the classroom after the pandemic, school supplies will be critical to helping them prepare and succeed.
“We believe parents shouldn’t have to choose between putting food on the table or making sure their kids have the tools necessary to thrive,” said John Roher, from Walmart. “We’re proud to support The Salvation Army’s efforts to make a positive impact that will help 200 children now and into adulthood.”
All supplies will be distributed to families in the community where they are given, to help local children enter the school year ready to succeed.
To learn more and find out how you can get involved with your local Salvation Army, visit www.salvationarmyusa.org.
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