Since 1999, generous readers of The Seattle Times Opinion pages have chipped in to help get our region’s youngest, most at-risk children off to school and ready to learn.
The idea was spawned when now-retired editorial board member Lance Dickie and his wife were volunteering at a food bank. Yes, people were there for food assistance, but a cache of school supplies was very popular with parents facing down the start and the expense of another new school year. The Times Opinion School Supplies Drive was born, and has brought in more than $1 million in the intervening years.
Needs changed over those years. Early on, the emphasis was on delivering new backpacks stuffed with age-appropriate supplies for kindergartners to high schoolers. As our nonprofit partners have come to serve populations of at-risk students, whether low-income, homeless or in foster care, they have adapted. In addition to the backpacks, they also provide gift cards for supplies and clothes.
Our partners are The Seattle/King County Coalition on Homelessness; YWCA Seattle-King-Snohomish; and on the Eastside, Hopelink. Every dime readers donate goes directly to these organizations.
Since this year’s campaign began in July, 496 donors have contributed $104,741.40. Donations come in big and small amounts. From individuals, including retired teachers, and family foundations. And the donors are happy to help.
One check came in an envelope with a colorful return address sticker adorned with a picture of volumes and “I love books” above it.
“Thank you for your care and supporting families and children prepare for school, year after year,” wrote Judith Leschner of Seattle.
From Dorothy Arab of Seattle on her reason: “I want strong students for our future. Thank you for the opportunity to help.”
“Thank you for helping kids get a great start again this school year! It’s about them, not us, so please list this contribution as anonymous,” wrote a Seattle couple.
To those and the other nearly 500 contributors who’ve already stepped up again for kids, thank you. This year’s School Supplies Drive continues through Labor Day.
How to help: The School Supplies Drive is part of The Seattle Times Fund For Those in Need, a registered 501(c) (3) Charitable Organization. The easiest way to donate is online at st.news/schoolsupplies. Checks may also be sent to: The Seattle Times School Supplies Drive, P.O. Box C-11025, Seattle, WA 98111; email questions to ffn@seattletimes.com.
