Community helps kids in need
Every kid needs supplies for school. But some families can’t afford these essentials.
That’s why The Gilmer Optimist Club created its Stuff the Bus fundraiser.
“In today’s economy, it can be really tough,” Optimist Club Programs Chair Carolyn Slavenas said. “We make sure that the children of Gilmer County are able to start their year off on the right foot.”
Slavenas co-chairs Stuff the Bus along with Maria Zabala
For kids, getting the supplies they need for school can make a big difference.
The Stuff the Bus fundraiser will be collecting items for kids returning to school. This year will mark its 14th annual fundraiser.
The fundraiser will take place from Friday, July 17 to Saturday, July 18, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. outside Walmart, located at 88 Highland Crossing, East Ellijay.
One of Slavenas’s best memories about the fundraiser is seeing young children giving a dollar or some change toward school supplies.
“They know that it’s for school supplies,” she said. “There are so many people in this community willing to give. And every dime is significant.”
These items can include all kinds of school supplies. Donors should bring items like pencils, crayons, notebooks, binders, folders, erasers, tissues, paper towels, Ziploc plastic bags, backpacks or cash donations.
All donated items must be new.
It’s also possible to buy pre-made donation bags from Walmart.
“It really takes the guesswork out of what to get,” she said.
In cooperation with Gilmer County Schools, Stuff the Bus will fill a storage room with the supplies so kids can go and get what they need without awkward attention.
“These children are given the supplies that they need in a very discreet and dignified manner,” Slavenas said.
In previous fundraisers, The Optimist Club has raised more than $5,000 worth of supplies.
But no matter the money raised, the event will impact “countless” families. Some students need many items, while others may just take one or two.
“It doesn’t matter what the need is, we’re able to help,” she said. “No matter how hard the situation is that you’re going through, there are resources available.”
The flexible structure of Stuff the Bus allows the supply of items to help as many families as possible.
“We’re only able to do that because of the generosity of our community,” Slavenas said. “That that speaks volumes for Gilmer County.”