School Tools provides supplies to thousands

More than 3,700 Greenville County students in grades 4K-8 will be able to start the school year with a new backpack full of supplies thanks to United Way of Greenville County’s annual School Tools supply drive.

Backpacks and bags filled with paper, pencils, markers, binders were distributed to families during a community-wide distribution day last weekend at the Juanita Butler Community Center.

In the months leading up to the start of school, employees at 76 local companies and organizations pitched in to collect supplies at their workplaces. They filled School Tools bags with grade level and gender-appropriate school supplies, including all the basics to help students start the school year ready to succeed.

“We are very thankful for the companies and members of our community who lent a helping hand to ensure that local children begin the school year with the best possible start,” said Ted Hendry, president of United Way of Greenville County. “The project’s success is a direct result of their commitment to caring and dedication to making a difference in the lives of families right here in Greenville County.”

In addition to the supplies handed out at the School Tools distribution day, bags of school supplies were provided to Boys Home of the South, Safe Harbor, Kinship Caregiver's of SC Youth Advocate Program, Upstate Circle of Friends, the Greenville County School District and Foothills Family Resources.

Families who still need school supplies may contact the Greenville County Schools Social Services department at 864-355-2079 for additional assistance.

Special thanks to the following companies and organizations who contributed supplies: