United Way of Greater Lorain County's 'Fill the Bus' school supply drive going on through July 28

United Way of Greater Lorain County is calling on the community to support its annual Fill the Bus school supply drive campaign to provide essential supplies to local schools. Donations are being accepted at the United Way's downtown Lorain office, 642 Broadway Ave., or through an Amazon Wishlist link that can be found online at uwloraincounty.org/fillthebus, through July 28. The United Way will distribute the collected items to schools in the first week of August. The effort "aims to ensure that children have the tools they need for academic success and to alleviate the financial burden on teachers who often purchase supplies out of their own pockets when students don't have their own supplies," the United Way said in a news release. Last year's Fill the Bus drive saw nearly 30,000 school supplies distributed to 11 school districts in Lorain County, made possible by 47 businesses hosting collection drives and individuals donating from the community. "I'd love to see our space overflowing with school supplies this summer. We know we can make a significant impact on the youngest learners in our community by providing the tools for success for this upcoming school year," said Colleen Walts, marketing and engagement director at United Way of Greater Lorain County. "We've streamlined our processes for donations and have an Amazon Wishlist available for individuals to purchase vital supplies and have them shipped directly to our United Way office." Individuals can also contribute their time, as volunteers play a crucial role in the success of the program by sorting, packing and delivering supplies near the end of July and into August. "We firmly believe all kids deserve the opportunity for success," said Ryan Aroney, president and CEO of United Way of Greater Lorain County. "I'm thankful our community supports us and we're able to help so many local children start the school year off with essential classroom supplies. And as the spouse of an educator, I know and appreciate how much teachers often spend on their own classrooms. I'm thankful we can help save some of their hard-earned money as well." The Fill the Bus school supply drive is part of United Way's year-round Collect.Sort.Deliver Impact Initiative, which collects high-need items such as school supplies, books, tampons and pads for distribution through local social service and educational agencies. To learn more or get involved, visit uwloraincounty.org/fillthebus or call (440) 277-6530.