By Dewey Terrill
JC Post
United Way of Junction City - Geary County, working with USD 475, is kicking off their 11th annual "Stuff the Bus" event. They will be seeking donation of school supplies from area residents to help children in the school district whose families may struggle to provide the necessary items to start the school year.
Nichole Mader, United Way Executive Director, noted that in previous years volunteers came out on Saturdays to ask the public to donate school supplies for students. But this year due to COVID-19 there will be a different look. Mader said to keep everyone safe, there will only be drop off locations throughout the city. Items can be dropped off at Dillons, Geary Community Hospital (COVID restrictions still apply), Central National Bank (Wal-Mart branch, Ash & 77, 8th & Washington), Intrust Bank, State Farm – Karen Jameson, KS State Bank, Dorothy Bramlage Public Library, Exchange Bank, Chamber of Commerce, Sunflower Bank.
If people do not wish to shop for the school supplies, financial contributions may also be made. All funds generated will be spent on the purchase of additional school supplies. Checks should be made to United Way with “Stuff the Bus” written on the memo line. Please mail checks to United Way, P O Box 567, Junction City, KS 66441. Online donations can be made through our website or by Text-To-Give: Text UWJCGCSTB to 44-321.
There will also be "Adopt-A-Backpack" displays at Dillons, and Geary Community Hospital ( COVID-19 ) restrictions.
Adopt-A-Backpack – Families in need may visit www.unitedwayjcgc.org to apply for the Adopt-A-Backpack for their children. Paper backpacks with the child’s shopping list will be available at the displays and at the United Way office. Backpacks are due back to United Way by August 7th. Backpacks can also be dropped off at KS State Bank. Families will be able to pick up their backpacks the week of the 10th, in time for the 1st day of school.