United Way Kicks Off School Supply Drive With Chance To Win Shopping Spree

The United Way of Bucks County has announced the return of its annual Stuff the Bus campaign.

The campaign is a major school supply drive created to help children in need throughout Bucks County.

This year, there is a special incentive—a chance to win a shopping spree.

Anyone who contributes to the Stuff the Bus initiative by August 9 will not only be entered into a drawing for a $500 Staples shopping spree, but will also have the opportunity to gift an additional $500 shopping spree to a Pre-K or Elementary School of their choice in Bucks County.

Marissa Christie, president and CEO of United Way of Bucks County, celebrated the dual benefit of the giveaway.

“This giveaway is a fun opportunity for community members to win something for themselves – and their favorite school – by giving back,” she said. “We’re hoping it encourages people to donate so we can ensure that every child in Bucks County starts the school year confident and prepared to learn,” she added.

The Falls Township-based nonprofit revealed that contributions of $250 or more would double the chances of winning the shopping spree.

“At Staples, we believe in the power of education and the importance of providing students with the supplies they need to succeed. We are proud to partner with United Way of Bucks County to further support the students in our community,” said Tom Pagan, Market Manager at Staples.

Last year, the Stuff the Bus drive distributed more than 3,300 backpacks to K-12 students across the county.

The program benefits kids in every school district in Bucks County along with 17 nonprofit partners.

Univest and Staples will also host in-store collections of backpacks throughout July and August.

For more details on store locations and collection dates, donors are directed to visit www.uwbucks.org/stuffthebus.

This year’s campaign is supported by Univest Financial, Comcast, Foundations Community Partnership, L3 Harris, PECO, and People Security Bank and Trust.

“Univest is honored to once again be the Presenting Sponsor of Stuff the Bus,” said Betsy Roush, vice president of community relations for Univest. “Our Committed To Local philanthropic giving program is focused on supporting initiatives that give back and strengthen the communities we serve. Partnering with United Way of Bucks County on this important program aligns perfectly with that focus as we help ensure that local children have the opportunity to thrive academically and reach their full potential.”

Donations are accepted online at www.uwbucks.org/stuffthebus or by check, mailed to United Way of Bucks County at 413 Hood Blvd, Fairless Hills, PA 19030, with “Stuff the Bus” written in the memo line.

To be eligible for the shopping spree giveaway, community members must make a direct cash donation to the nonprofit by August 9, 2024.

Editor’s Note: Publisher Tom Sofield is a member of the United Way of Bucks County Board of Directors.