Community Organizations Team Up for “Stuff the Bus” Drive in Bryan-College Station

Overview

The Junior League of Bryan-College Station (JLBCS) is launching its 24th annual “Stuff the Bus” event this week. This donation drive provides much-needed school supplies to students in the Bryan and College Station areas. The JLBCS is partnering with several area businesses to hold this event that runs from Wednesday through Saturday.

The Importance of the Program

Anaissa Richardson, occupying the dual roles of Stuff the Bus chair and community vice-president, emphasizes the importance of the drive. Richardson noted that “whether they’re pre-K or they’re seniors in high school, it’s vital to ensure they have everything they need.” She further highlighted that the simple items like crayons or pencils can significantly enhance the education of the future community leaders studying in Bryan-College Station schools.

Impact of Rising Costs

For many parents and teachers, both the rise in school supplies prices and the toll of the pandemic have amplified the importance of Stuff the Bus. Lindsey Mikulec, a Bryan ISD teacher and mother of two, noted the escalating cost of school supplies and the necessity of having to make some sacrifices. She also highlighted the reflection of these hardships in the classroom, recounting the heartbreaking sight of students coming to school empty-handed. The Stuff the Bus initiative helped address this issue as it ensured that teachers had excess supplies to cater to such students.

Easing the Financial Burden on Families

Sarah Curylo of the Junior League pointed out that the organization had already purchased $70,000 worth of supplies for the new school year of 2024-2025 in response to the escalating costs. Melanie Warren, the Vice President of membership with the Junior League, further corroborated that the drive holds significant value for families with multiple children. The differences in supplies requirements across grades and classes can cause costs to stack up.

Donation Drive Locations and Collaborations

Over the course of the Stuff the Bus drive, donation boxes will be unveiled at different business locations each day. The drive also features partnerships with Torchy’s Tacos and Kendra Scott, wherein mentioning the program at checkout lets you donate 15% of your expenditure to Stuff the Bus. Moreover, Zachary Langenkamp, President of Blue Baker, has paired up with the volunteer group to help Stuff the Bus for the last eight years.

Looking Ahead

The organization plans to continue to accept donations through mid-August at designated locations throughout Bryan and College Station. Beyond this financial support, JLBCS also hopes to use the initiative to instill confidence in students and reduce their anxiety and stress regarding school supply shortages. Interested donors can find a list of required school supplies via the linked webpage.

Copyright 2024. All rights reserved.