HUTCHINSON, Kan. — As the new school year approaches, many Reno County families need assistance obtaining essential school supplies for their children. To help meet that need, The Salvation Army, First Call for Help, and Walmart are partnering for this weekend’s “Stuff the Bus” school supply drive, giving shoppers an opportunity to support local students in grades K-12.
Community members can donate by purchasing extra school supplies while shopping at Walmart, located at 1905 E. 17th Ave. in Hutchinson, from Friday through Sunday. Donations may be placed in the collection bin located near the store’s customer service desk.
All donated supplies will be distributed to local families through First Call for Help. Last year, First Call for Help provided more than 2,000 stuffed backpacks to Reno County students, helping ensure children had the supplies needed to start the school year prepared for success.
Families seeking assistance with school supplies are encouraged to call First Call for Help at 620-669-0159. Distribution of supplies and backpacks will take place the week of August 10 by appointment only.
“We know that more than 10% of Reno County residents live below the poverty line, meaning many children may begin the school year without the supplies they need to succeed,” said Major Paul James of The Salvation Army. “Through our partnership with First Call for Help and Walmart, every donation received this weekend will help make a meaningful difference for local students and families.”
Among the most-needed items are spiral notebooks, three-ring binders, colored pencils, colored markers, pocket folders, large erasers, facial tissue, glue sticks, and other general classroom supplies.
Donations will be accepted at Walmart from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday through Sunday. Community members may also drop off school supplies next week at The Salvation Army, 700 N. Walnut St., Hutchinson, or at First Call for Help, 921 E. 4th Ave., Hutchinson, on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Donations can also be arranged by appointment by calling 620-669-0159.
