News & Events
United Way Organizes School Supplies Collection Effort
For the second year, United Way of Laurens County will give community residents an opportunity to help area schools provide much needed school supplies to the county’s underprivileged children just in time for back to school.
United Way volunteers will be stationed at Wal-Mart August 3-4 - Tax-Free Weekend - to accept school supplies on behalf of both school districts. In addition, both school district offices will also serve as drop off sites from August 6-15.
The supplies will be distributed among the school districts for disbursement to area schools. The schools will then match the needs of area children with supplies donated. Children in Thornwell’s residential program will also benefit from this project.
Last year, the effort collected over 4,300 school supplies and every public school in Laurens County received supplies to distribute to children.
Local school district officials have worked to prepare a common list of supplies needed in all schools throughout the county. These lists will be published in local newspapers and distributed at local churches and retailers beginning July 18.
"As was evidenced by the outpouring of support we received last year, we know there is an incredible need for a project like this here in our community," said Caroline Thomas, Executive Director of United Way of Laurens County. "We are excited to bring the community together around this all-too-important cause. It’s a real privilege to help our local schools and local teachers provide these items to students who need it most. It’s exciting to see the impact a project like this can have on our community."
"We very much appreciate the wonderful relationship that our schools have had with the United Way for many years," said Dr. Ed Taylor, Superintendent for Laurens County School District 55. "This is another example of generosity by the United Way. Many of our families struggle to provide school supplies for their children. It is very special that this burden will be lightened by community giving."
"We are excited about being a part of such a worthwhile event," said Dr. Wayne Brazzell, Superintendent for Laurens County School District 56. "There are many families who will benefit and all of our children deserve to start the school year prepared to learn."
If you would like to serve as a volunteer for United Way’s School Supply Project or if you would like to donate school supplies, call the United Way office at 864.833.3623 or email at unitedway@backroads.net.
Supply lists are available upon request at the Laurens County Chamber of Commerce.
