United Way of Mat-Su prepares for annual Stuff the Bus and Back to School Fair

WASILLA— With another school year around the corner, United Way of Mat-Su is gearing up for their annual Stuff the Bus and Back to School Fair at the Menard Sports Center.

On Aug. 13, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., K-12 students from across the Matanuska Susitna Borough School District are invited to pick up free clothes, shoes, and school supplies.

“It’s a blessing to be able serve in this role and to be able to reconvene a lot of different folks who want to help; bringing the business community, the medical community and public health, the school district, volunteers from all over the community to be there for kids,” Allen said.

Stephanie Allen, executive director of United Way Mat-Su said.

There will be brand new pack packs available (while supplies last) and an array of gently used clothes and shoes. Allen said the school supplies will be brand new and, covering the majority of essential items like pencils, pens, glue sticks, folders, and scissors.

In addition to free clothes and supplies there will be free haircuts by Hello Darlin' Salon and Spa the Mat-Su Public Health Center will offer low cost vaccinations onsite. Allen noted there will also be free Valley resource guides available.

“It’s a fun, really just joyful experience for everybody; for us, for the volunteers, for families,” Allen said.

Over 1,100 people showed up last year, according to Allen. She said that the event goes all the way to 3 p.m. or until supplies run out. She said that they understand if people only have a little bit of time to work with, having just a lunch break or something.

“It’s worth coming over just to see. If they are truly in need of a back pack or school supplies for their kids, please stop by,” Allen said.

Allen said this is United Way’s sixth year putting on this event. They have an ongoing partnership with the MSBSD and support from local sponsors like the Mat-Su Health Foundation and MEA.

“It’s a lot of hard work but I have to tell you it’s so worth it,” Allen said.

This event is part of a national effort, according to Allen. She said that Walmart partners with United Way chapters across the U.S. to help gather clothes and supplies with collection bins near their entrances. The Wasilla Walmart is once again helping collect items.

Churches and local businesses like the Mat-Valley Federal Credit Union and Salvation Army also have drop sites for donations.

United Way of Mat-Su is currently accepting gently used clothes and shoes donations for the drive. People can drop items off at their office or any of the aforementioned sites.

Proof of student registration is required for this event. For more information about the drive, drop sites or United Way of Mat-Su, call: 907- 373-5807.

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com