School supplies drive for keiki in need this weekend

LIHU‘E — Schools around the island opened its doors to students this week.

This prompted Walmart Hawai‘i Stores and The Salvation Army to launch a final big push to “Stuff the Bus,” a school supplies drive for keiki-in-need that takes place on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

“For keiki preparing for the upcoming school year, school supplies remain critical to their success,” said a Salvation Army spokesperson. “In light of COVID-19, The Salvation Army has adapted its services to ensure that children in every community can continue receiving the educational support they deserve.”

The “Stuff the Bus” campaign between the Walmart-Lihu‘e and The Salvation Army on Kaua‘i is just part of 4,500 similar campaigns taking place across Hawai‘i, and the country.

Contribution is simple — when shopping at the Walmart store on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, simply purchase and drop off requested items at The Salvation Army collection bins located at the store.

“There are thousands of keiki in Hawai‘i whose parents will have to make the tough choice between school supplies, groceries, rent, the utility bill, or insurance,” said Major Phil Lum, Divisional Commander, The Salvation Army Hawaiian and Pacific Islands. “We anticipate this number will increase significantly this year due to the COVID-19 impact on the local economy.”

Walmart and The Salvation Army have collaborated for more than 30 years in an effort to meet local community needs.

“We believe parents should not have to choose between putting food on the table, or making sure their kids have the tools necessary to thrive,” said Hawai‘i Market Manager for Walmart Lance McAlister. “We are proud to support The Salvation Army’s efforts to make a positive impact for keiki and families throughout Hawai‘i.”

All contributions made at “Stuff the Bus” campaigns will remain in the local community to help The Salvation Army provide back-to-school support to children who need help. This means that whatever is raised at the Walmart-Lihu‘e will stay here on island to help The Salvation Army’s efforts.

Information: StuffTheBusHawaii.org.

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Dennis Fujimoto, staff writer and photographer, can be reached at 245-0453 or dfujimoto@thegardenisland.com.
Source: The Garden Island