United Way’s annual “Stuff the Bus and More” campaign has successfully collected about $24,000 this year. The campaign aims to help students start the school year with necessary supplies and support.
The funding will benefit around 45 school campuses, including Texarkana, Texas ISD, which received approximately $4,700. While some campuses received backpacks, most were given checks to purchase items for their emergency care closets. These closets provide school supplies, hygiene items, clothes, and food.
One of the largest pantries is located at Texas Middle School. “We’re able to provide more resources for our students. Previously, the backpacks were a one-time thing, but now students receive resources throughout the entire school year,” said Lakesha Taylor from TISD’s student and family support services.
United Way of Greater Texarkana president, Mark Bledsoe, emphasized the community’s involvement. “This is not just a United Way project. The Rotary, the Kiwanis, sororities, business leaders, corporations, and banks all pitch in to help. It’s a community-wide program.”
For 16 years, the Stuff the Bus program has collaborated with school administrations, civic organizations, and businesses across the Texarkana area to support students in over 10 school districts in Texas and Arkansas.
