Summer is here and August is just around the corner and this means back to school and with back to school comes shopping for school supplies.
This time of the year can be a trying effort for many families in Barton County. But The Salvation Army together with the United Way of Central Kansas is putting both feet forward and is hosting a back to school drive for the community.
“This drive is very important for the community,” Salvation Army Store Manager Dana Walls said. “The way the economy is right now, there is a lot of families that are in need and this is just a way for us to help them get through these tough times.”
The drive started July 25 and will run until Aug. 7 with drop off locations around town including The Salvation Army Store, The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce and Marmie’s of Great Bend.
The Salvation Army does not provide all of the school supplies that they will need.
Items that are needed and can be donated include: pencils, highlighters, markers, notebooks, notebook paper, binders, school bags, dry erase markers, erasers, crayons, scissors, boxes of facial tissue, pens and pocket folders.
Distributions of the bags will be Aug. 9 at The Best Western Inn in Great Bend. If you are interested in volunteering, making a donation, or would like to sign up stop by 2545 10th St. in Great Bend or call 620-792-4299.
According to the Salvation Army, obtaining the necessary supplies which range from clothing to calculators can be a costly feat: the average family will spend $670 this year on supplies and clothing. The biggest cost for back to school shoppers is apparel and accessories, followed by electronics.
That’s why each year The Salvation Army coordinates back to school events and distributions for families in need of a helping hand. From collecting supplies from local donors and partnering businesses, to stuffing backpacks and coordinating events, The Salvation Army relies on the hearts and hands of supporters and volunteers to make these events possible.