LARNED — Sometimes when it comes to the agencies in Barton and Pawnee counties that serve those in need, that need isn’t about money.
United Way of Central Kansas will sponsor a “Stuff the Bus” stop from 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday at the Pamida Store in Larned.
School supplies, baby care items, non-perishable foods, and other goods are requested, said Julie Bugner-Smith, UWCK executive director.
“These agencies not only need money, they need supplies,” Bugner-Smith said.
UWCK serves 19 organizations in the two counties. The 2012 United Way campaign opened Sept. 1 with a goal of $235,000.
“Sometimes people can’t give money,” Bugner-Smith said, adding this opportunity gives everyone a chance to participate. “Our goal is to fill the bus. If everyone works together, we’ll be able to stuff the bus with stuff our agencies need to help support the most vulnerable members of our community.”
She is challenging school clubs and sports teams, local businesses and civic organizations to pitch in and help. These groups can contribute money or items for the effort, or can volunteer to man the bus for a shift.
 Bugner-Smith said she knows how generous the communities included in UWCK are and she is confident residents will come through. Such drives have been held by other United Way offices with great success, she said.
For more information or to volunteer, call Bugner-Smith at 620-792-2403 or go to uwck.org.