A coalition of community organizations and businesses is working to make sure local low-income students start the school year prepared and ready to learn.

Volunteers are seeking school supply donations for the 25th annual Operation Back to School (OBTS) supply drive for students throughout Laramie County.

Anyone interested in giving supplies may drop them off at donation bins located at Needs Inc., LCCC, Laramie County Library, Laramie County School District 1 Administration Building and F.E. Warren Air Force Base.

Monetary donations are also accepted. Please make checks payable to: Needs Inc., Attn: OBTS.

Donated supplies for K–12 and college students will be distributed Saturday, Aug. 8, at the Cheyenne Animal Shelter Community Room, 800 Southwest Drive. Those in need of supplies should stop by Needs Inc., 900 Central Ave., before Aug. 8 to pre-qualify. Income and residency guidelines apply.

If unable to attend distribution, qualified families are invited to visit Needs, Inc., 900 Central Ave., to pick up what they need. The program runs throughout the year so students are able to replenish their supplies at any time.

Needs Executive Director Barbara Fecht said, “Needs Inc. is proud to be associated with Operation Back to School to ensure that our students have the proper tools to begin a successful school year.”

Members of this year’s volunteer network include Cheyenne Light, Fuel & Power, F.E. Warren Air Force Base, Laramie County Community College, LCSD1 Community Relations, LCSD1 Instruction and Needs Inc.

Last year, OBTS helped hundreds of income-qualified students and numerous households. Organizers hope to increase the program’s reach so more students, kindergarten through college, will be served.

Here is a list of the supplies needed for elementary schools in LCSD#1

1 Box of #2 Pencils (24 count)
2 Boxes of Tissue
4 Glue Sticks
1 Box of Fat Washable Markers (10 count)
1 Box of Crayons (24 count)
2 Large Erasers
1 Backpack

 

For more information, please contact Needs Inc., 632-4132.

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