United Way of the Ouachitas “Stuffs the Bus”

(HOT SPRINGS—AUGUST 26, 2024) The United Way of the Ouachitas recently collected 5,769 individual school supply items for local schools in Garland County during its annual Stuff the Bus Event.

Held during Arkansas’ tax-free weekend, the United Way of the Ouachitas, along with representatives from all seven Garland County School Districts, stood outside area Walmart superstore, where patrons were encouraged to shop for and donate school supplies.

"The goal of United Way is to ensure that ALL children start school well-equipped for a new school year, giving them a leg up on learning, one step up the ladder to educational success,” said Vanessa Ferrell, Board President.

Stuff the Bus eases the financial burden on families with school-aged children. Giving a student the required supplies promotes learning, encourages self-esteem, and helps kids stay in school. The United Way looks at it as more than just supplies, but also as the first step to prepare students for a fulfilling, successful future.

The United Way is extremely appreciative of the three local Walmart supercenters in Garland County providing a venue to collect donations.

“By providing us with a venue, our local Walmart stores enabled us to collect much-needed school supplies for children in our community. Their partnership helps us ensure that students have the tools they need to succeed in the upcoming school year,” Ferrell said.

In addition to the assistance from local Walmart stores, the United Way of the Ouachitas also received $3144.52 in monetary funds to assist schools with much-needed supplies for the 2024-2025 school year.

Learn more about the United Way of the Ouachitas or donate to directly help the underserved in our community at unitedwayouachitas.org.

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