Middletown Dad Collecting School Supplies For Keansburg Students

MIDDLETOWN, NJ — A local small-business owner and father of two is hosting a back-to-school supply drive — because he hasn't forgotten what it's like to struggle, and hopes others haven't either.

Ryan Schoentube, 29, is the sole owner of Fly Guys Barbershop on Rt. 35 north (in between the Whole Foods and Pool World) on the Red Bank/Middletown border.

He said business is doing well, and he enjoys owning his own business, which he has for the past two years. But he never forgets where he came from.

"I grew up in Keansburg and we weren't well off. I went to Keansburg public schools," he said. "Growing up, I didn't have the nicest clothes on my back or toys under the Christmas tree. When I moved to Middletown and was able to provide for my family and give them the things they wanted, it felt great. But I want to give to other kids and families that can't afford to do so. When I see families that can't provide for their own kids, it's a horrible feeling."

Schoentube is asking people to donate school supplies; all the items donated will go directly to the Keansburg public school district. People can either donate through his Amazon wish list: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wish... or simply put school supplies in a box he has set up inside his barbershop.

The only day he is closed is Monday; otherwise, he is open 9-7, 8-4 on Saturday and 10-2 on Sunday.

"I am collecting anything that you think kids would need for school: Pens, pencils, notebooks, backpacks, calculators. Any school supplies."

About six years ago, he moved to Middletown; he has two children and his oldest daughter, 6, attends Fairview Elementary.