Annual Event Aims to Support Students in Aroostook County
In Presque Isle, Maine, the Aroostook County Action Program (ACAP) recently held its annual “Stuff the Bus” event. This community-driven initiative is designed to gather essential school supplies for students across the county, ensuring that all children have the necessary tools to begin the new school year on a positive note.
The event serves as a vital opportunity for local residents to contribute items such as backpacks, notebooks, pencils, and other educational materials. These donations are then distributed to families who may not have the financial resources to purchase these items on their own. The goal of the program is to help eliminate the stigma that some students might feel if they lack basic school supplies, which can often be a significant burden for low-income households.
Jason Parent, the Executive Director and CEO of ACAP, emphasized the importance of the event. He stated, “To ensure that no student feels ostracized because they don’t have a backpack or any of the school supplies that they are required to have. We understand that that’s very expensive for some families, and for many families in Aroostook County that are of limited means, it becomes really difficult to start a new school year and to have that required list of school supplies all ready to go.”
The “Stuff the Bus” event took place today and officially concluded at 6 p.m. However, the program continues to accept donations throughout the year. Community members interested in contributing can still drop off backpacks and school supplies at ACAP’s main office. This ongoing support ensures that the needs of students in the area are met, even beyond the initial collection period.
For families who require assistance, ACAP remains a valuable resource. The organization encourages those in need to reach out directly for help. Whether through donations or direct support, the program highlights the power of community collaboration in addressing educational inequalities.
Key Items Collected During the Event
- Backpacks
- Notebooks
- Pencils
- Pens
- Highlighters
- Erasers
- Calculators
- Rulers
- Glue sticks
- Markers
These items are carefully sorted and distributed to students who qualify for assistance. The program also works with local schools and community organizations to identify children who may benefit from the supplies.
How to Get Involved
Individuals and businesses looking to support the cause can do so in several ways:
- Donate Supplies: Drop off new or gently used school supplies at ACAP’s main office.
- Volunteer: Assist with sorting and distributing donated items.
- Spread the Word: Share information about the program with friends, family, and colleagues.
- Fundraise: Organize a fundraiser to collect additional funds for purchasing supplies.
By participating in these efforts, members of the community can make a meaningful difference in the lives of local students. The success of the “Stuff the Bus” event is a testament to the generosity and compassion of the people in Aroostook County.
As the school year approaches, the continued support of ACAP ensures that every child has an equal opportunity to succeed. Through collective action and shared responsibility, the community is working together to build a brighter future for its youth.
