Stuff the Bus Program Now Accepting Donations

“Stuff the Bus” Program Now Accepting Donations

ABINGDON, Va. – The annual “Stuff the Bus” fundraiser, an initiative hosted by United Way of Southwest Virginia, is set to take place this July. The program aims to provide essential school supplies to students across Southwest Virginia, benefitting over 73,000 students across 150 schools in all 21 localities within the United Way service area.

Rising School Supply Costs

In the face of mounting school supply costs – expected to exceed $890 per family and average $597 per child this year – “Stuff the Bus” comes as a significant relief for struggling families. For some, this amount amounts to several months’ worth of groceries, posing an incredible financial burden. By contributing to “Stuff the Bus,” community members have the opportunity to ensure that every student in Southwest Virginia and the New River Valley begins the new school year equipped with the tools they need to succeed.

Local Support

“We believe that every child deserves the opportunity to succeed,” said Megan Parks, executive director of United Way of Southwest Virginia. “Our community has always been incredibly supportive, and we are confident that together, we can make a significant impact in the lives of our students.”

Donation Points and Partnerships

School supplies can be dropped off at designated collection points throughout the region. Brilliant community partners such as Food City, First Community Bank, Appalachian Community Federal Credit Union, and Virginia Farm Bureau Insurance host several of these collection points. The “Stuff the Bus” initiative this year is proudly sponsored by The Rapha Foundation, First Community Bank, and Food City.

Through this comprehensive community effort, thousands of students stand to gain a better start to their new school year. The initiative not only lifts financial pressure from families but also ensures students enter their classrooms prepared and ready to learn.