HOLLAND, MI (WHTC) – The dog days of Summer are here, but if you’re a parent chances are you’ve asked yourself this question already. “Is it time to send the kids back to school yet?”
It’s not although stores are already filled with school supplies. There are many school children is Ottawa County who struggle with the basic needs when going back to school. That’s where Greater Ottawa County United Way’s Stuff the Bus program steps in.
The program is designed to give kids in need the tools to start the school year off right. United Way’s Shannon LaHaie tells WHTC News that it’s a step up and not a hand out.
“Sometimes families have to choose between paying the electric bill or getting their child a new backpack. We really want to make sure we’re filling the gap for every family that has a need. Last year we gave out almost 1,000 backpacks filled with all the supplies students need, but we still had a waiting list after that.” LaHaie says.
Starting July 25-August 8, 2016 you will be able to drop off school supplies at the WHTC studios located at 87 Central Avenue in Holland, The Holland Museum, Loutit District Library, Schreur Printing, Fifth Third Bank Locations and Macatawa Bank locations in Ottawa County,
The supplies that are needed include backpacks, erasers, pencil sharpeners ,pencils, highlighters, pens of all colors, elementary-age scissors, notebooks, markers, folders, water bottles and eveything you can think of to start the school year.
To receive a free backpack with school supplies for your child(ren), please make an appointment at The Salvation Army between July 25 and August 5.
Please bring the following to your appointment:> Photo identification> Your Social Security card> Social Security numbers for all household members> Proof of income
Distribution of the backpacks will take place on Thursday, August 18.
More information will be provided at the time of your registration.
The Salvation Army of Holland, 104 Clover St., Holland MI 49423 at 616-392-4461 (Household income is not to exceed 150% of poverty)
If you are unable to drop off backbacks and supplies, you can donate here and United Way will pick them up for you.
