Donate School Supplies to Make a Difference

If you're a parent, you probably received a supply list from your child's school. If you don't have a school-aged kid, you've undoubtedly seen every store feature back-to-school sales.

With multiple quantities listed, you may wonder if your child really needs 24 pencils in the first week of school?

It can be tough for parents to buy everything their children need. But when students don't have necessary supplies, teachers often step up and use their own money.

Imagine buying supplies for all your students, not only for your own children. It can add up. Local schools and teachers greatly appreciate your donations.

Think Outside the Box

Supplies can also include hygiene items for the classroom, such as antibacterial hand soap, antibacterial wipes, paper towels and tissues.

While teachers are showing kids how to avoid spreading germs, they also need an ample supply of hand cleansers, paper towels and tissues.

In lower grades, classes may need snacks, napkins, juice or water bottles. Usually, snacks aren't included in class funding, which means they're only available if provided by the teacher or parent donations.

Some schools keep a box or shelf of extra clothes: for kids who need to change after an accident or for students to change into more appropriate attire.

Uniform schools usually appreciate gently used uniforms that can be given to kids in need.

The Pinellas County Schools website shows basic supply lists for the 2011-2012 school year. You still need to check with your child's individual teachers, who may ask for specific items not listed on the general list.

Donate Extra to Local Schools

Blanton Elementary School said they would be appreciative of any and all school supplies, especially backpacks, paper, glue sticks and notebooks.  

Gibbs High School also said they could use donations; check with their office next week for specific items.

If you have extra supplies or would like to donate items, now is the perfect time. Comparison shop, and you can get deep discounts on school supplies and back-to-school items.

You can donate items to your child's teacher or to the school office. Some schools also have a 'adopt a classroom', where you can donate money to be used in a specific classroom. Monetary donations can be as little as $5 to $200 or more.

With a little help from the community, our area school students can have the items they need to learn and be productive.