MIDDLEBURY — The United Way of Addison County is gearing up for their annual back to school donation drive known as ‘Stuff the Bus!’
Last year with local support and donations of over $3,000, in combination with collected supplies, the United Way was able to prepare over 180 supplies-stuffed backpacks for Addison County elementary, middle, and high school aged youth. It is United Way of Addison County’s mission to make sure that the entire community is set up for success in areas that determine the overall health and wellness of its members. Collaboration with community donors of monetary gifts and supplies ensures this outcome.
According to the 2015 VT Youth Risk Behavior Study; “In Addison County nearly 50% of students (grades 9 – 12) do not feel valued by their community”, explains Jesse Brooks, Volunteer Center and Regional Prevention Partnership Coordinator for United Way of Addison County. Community supported programs like the Back to School Shop exist to assist Addison County youth by providing them with necessary school items which help in achieving academic success. “It is important that we continue our efforts in promoting prosperous, positive experiences for all students in Addison County and that the students feel like they live in a community that cares about their achievements”  she said.
August 30th is the first day of school for most Addison County students; please help the United Way of Addison County make sure that all area youth and schools can get off to a good start this year by continuing to support this program by dropping off new school supplies to one of the 3 locations in Addison County.
Drop off dates and locations are as follows:
   •Aug. 1-25, at the UWAC offices at 48 Court St. in Middlebury, M-F from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
   •Aug. 16, on the green in Bristol from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
   •Aug. 17, on the green in Vergennes from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
If you have any questions or wish to volunteer at drop off sites, packing backpacks, or in some other capacity for this program, please contact Jesse Brooks at: [email protected] or by calling the United Way office at 802-388-7189.