CAPITOLA—United Way of Santa Cruz County’s 10th annual “Stuff the Bus” initiative was a huge success this year, organizers reported Tuesday. Community members and businesses collected over 2,000 backpacks, school supplies and donations for low-income and homeless children in the region.
The County Office of Education estimates there are 3,200 children in our county classified as homeless or in transition who need new school supplies. These students are living with their families in shelters or motels, or their families have lost their homes and have moved in with relatives or friends.
“Every donation not only gives these children a chance to succeed in school and life, but also represents a Santa Cruz County community member showing support for those in the most need,” said Keisha Frost, CEO of United Way of Santa Cruz County.
The United Way of Santa Cruz County would like to thank the following sponsors and in-kind donors:
Poly, Bay Federal Credit Union, Santa Cruz County Bank, Graniterock, Sundance Berry Farms, Dignity Health, Kaiser Permanente, UCSC, Santa Cruz County Credit Union, CCES Energy Assistance Program, UPS, SC Warriors, Costco, Whiting’s Food, Dientes Dental, Michael’s Transportation, Starbucks, New Leaf Community Markets, County Office of Education, Woodstock’s Pizza, Blaze Pizza, Positive Parenting Discipline.
For information on Stuff the Bus or how to get involved with the United Way, contact ca******@un*********.org
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United Way of Santa Cruz County focuses on youth success, family financial stability and health. United Way aims to identify and build on community strengths, help individuals and groups with specific community interests, find ways to contribute their time and talents, support community change efforts, advocate public policy changes, and support direct service programs. To learn more visit unitedwaysc.org.