Published: July 30, 2009 01:40 pm      

Indiana University Southeast to give school supplies to children

University seeking donations

The cost of school supplies can add up, especially for families living on a tight budget.

So, the Indiana University Southeast Children’s Center is hoping to do what it can to help out.

For the first time, the center is collecting school supplies to distribute to those in need.

“We just figured with the economy the way it was that we’d try to do our best to help out the community and provide those resources,” said Wanda Gregory, coordinator of the center.

However, the drive to collect everything that’s needed — such as crayons, paper and pencils — to help out the goal of 250 students is going slow. But Gregory isn’t giving up just yet.

“We’re very hopeful,” she said. “We have several people who have said they intend to [donate], so we’re hoping that will happen.”

The deadline to get donations in is Monday. Those supplies will be bagged up and given to children who show up on the distribution date — Aug. 7.

For the first year, Gregory said children will not have to prove need. However, supplies will be given out on a first-come, first-serve basis starting at 9 a.m. that day.

She said she hopes for the program to continue and grow next year. Then, they’ll re-evaluate whether students need to provide proof of need.



NEED SCHOOL SUPPLIES?

• The Indiana University Southeast Children’s Center will give out free school supplies on a first-come, first-serve basis starting at 9 a.m. Aug. 7. All children are eligible.



WANT TO HELP?

• The Indiana University Southeast Children’s Center is seeking basic school supply donations, such as pencils, markers, glue, paper and crayons.

To donate, drop off supplies or cash/gift card donations during business hours at the center, located on IUS’ campus. The center is open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday.

All donations are due by 7:30 p.m. Monday.