United Way’s ‘Stuff the Bus’ Asks for Donations for Homeless Children

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – United Way of Pioneer Valley is asking the community to support its annual “Stuff the Bus” initiative by donating new backpacks specifically for elementary school girls, along with other essential school supplies.

The aim of this program is to provide homeless children in the region with the necessary materials so that they can start the school year well prepared and with confidence.

“Stuff the Bus” is a key United Way program that addresses the needs of homeless students by ensuring they have access to the same basic school supplies as their peers. This year’s focus on backpacks for girls highlights a specific need in the community. In addition to backpacks, the organization also collects a variety of school supplies, including spiral notebooks, essay books, loose-leaf paper, colored pencils, index cards, pencil sharpeners, erasers, glue sticks, highlighters and rulers.

In addition to student supplies, the drive has expanded this year to include donations for teachers. Essential classroom supplies like paper towels, hand sanitizer, and whiteboard markers are also being sought to support teachers in creating a safe and effective learning environment. A full list of needed items can be found on the Amazon Wish List for Students and Amazon Wish List for Teachers.

Delivery locations: Until August 12, you can donate at various locations in the region, including:

• AAA Northeast, 150 Capital Drive, West Springfield
• AAA Northeast, 1891 Wilbraham Road, Springfield
• Balise Chevy Buick GMC, 440 Hall of Fame Ave, Springfield
• Balise Ford of Wilbraham, 1979 Boston Rd, Wilbraham
• Balise Honda West Springfield, 400 Riverdale St, West Springfield
• Balise Hyundai, 683 E Columbus Ave, Springfield
• Balise Kia, 635 Riverdale St, West Springfield
• Balise Lexus, 1385 Riverdale St, West Springfield
• Balise Mazda, 733 E Columbus Ave, Springfield
• Balise Nissan of West Springfield, 500 Riverdale St, West Springfield
• Balise Ready Credit, 693 E Columbus Ave, Springfield
• Balise Toyota, 1399 Riverdale St, West Springfield
• Peter Pan Bus Lines, Springfield Union Station – 1 Peter Pan Way, Ticket Office
• Steve Lewis Subaru, 315 Russell St., Hadley
• Western Mass News, 1300 Liberty Street, Springfield

For more information about the “Stuff the Bus” program or to learn more about United Way initiatives, visit their website.