Donations are still coming in, but we are excited to announce that Stuff the Bus 2014 has packed and distributed over 1,065 bags for kids in need in Bucks County!
That’s 40% more bags than last year, and it’s all thanks to the support of our sponsors, Cummins Power Systems and Bank of America and the generosity of everyone in Bucks County who contributed.
Supplies came in from every corner of the county from Quakertown to Bristol and will be distributed to all 13 Bucks County school districts, the Intermediate Unit and 17 human services agencies. This is UW Bucks biggest drive to date.
“These supplies can really make a difference for a child,” explained Danielle Bush, our Director of Community and Volunteer Engagement. “Going to school prepared allows kids to stay organized, have the confidence to ask questions and ultimately do better in school. That’s the goal of Stuff the Bus.”
Designated collection days occurred on Tuesday, August 19th and Wednesday, August 20th, followed by a packing event at Cummins Power Systems in Bristol on Thursday, August 21st. Dozens of volunteers helped sort the donations then fill backpacks with the appropriate supplies. “We want kids to go to school prepared. It allows them to stay organized, have the confidence to ask questions, and ultimately do better in school. That’s the goal of Stuff the Bus,” said Bush.
Cummins also hosted a Dollar Dog Day in the midst of packing, raising an additional $245 dollars for Stuff the Bus on Thursday, which resulted in even more supplies.
Once backpacks were packed and sorted to meet agencies needs, they were able to pick them up to distribute to their clients.
“[The United Way was] such a blessing to us, as we gave out Back to School Supplies and clothing to single parent families on Saturday. Their donations put great smiles on many children and parents’ faces. Through the donations we were able to help over 40 families,” said Catherine Crawford of Single Parent Fellowship.
We are so proud of our Stuff the Bus team and excited for the kids who are heading back to school with new supplies!
To learn more about Stuff the Bus, visit www.uwbucks.org/stuffthebus. For more information about what UW Bucks does to support education in Bucks County, visit www.uwbucks.org/education.