Jackson County United Way’s 12th Annual Rock’n Ready Free School Supplies Program is just around the corner and the organization is taking registrations until Friday, June 28th. Registrations opened on April 1st.
“We’re so excited to bring back this amazing program for Jackson County students,” Engagement Director, Emily Engelking said.
Last year, the Jackson County United Way provided free, basic school supplies to over 1,400 students in all school districts across Jackson County, a 33% increase from 2022. Registered students received a backpack and a general supplies list based on commonly requested items from teachers at different grade levels. This year, there are already around 700 students registered for the program.
To be eligible to register, students must be enrolled in a Jackson County school or homeschool and be in Kindergarten through 12th grade this coming fall.
“We do our best to meet the needs of our students and get the supplies that they need to start the school year prepared and ready to learn,” Engelking said. “It takes a lot of working together within the community to collect donations of supplies and purchasing anything that we don’t collect. We’re so grateful to our sponsors who help us make this happen year after year.”
This year’s event is sponsored by German American Bank and the FOP 108’s Cops and Kids program. The goal is to raise $20,000 to purchase needed supplies for those who register, but also for the schools to use throughout the year.
Sponsorships are still available at various levels, but there are more ways to get involved with the program.
“Of course financial support is always needed and appreciated, but we also need donations of supplies, backpacks, and volunteer time as well,” Engleking said. “Businesses can set up as public drop-off sites and collect supplies. Individuals can donate supplies or volunteer their time at a Rock’n Ready event. There are also Amazon and Walmart wish lists set up that can be found on our website.”
Jackson County United Way and volunteers will be outside Walmart from Friday, July 5th until Wednesday, July 10th taking donations of school supplies and monetary contributions. To learn more about ways to get involved, sponsor, or get registered, please visit www.jacsy.org/rocknready.