CULLMAN, Ala. – The United Way of Cullman County recently wrapped up its annual Stuff the Bus school supply drive, and Executive Director Stephanie Childers said they were overwhelmed with gratitude for the outpouring of support from the community.
“This effort helps ensure that every child in Cullman County and Cullman City Schools starts the school year with the tools they need to succeed,” Childers said. “All donations went directly to our local public school systems and were distributed by school counselors to students in need.”
Partner drop-off locations included the Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center, Cornerstone Church of the Nazarene, Cullman City Schools, Cullman Police Department, Cullman County Schools, Cullman County Commission, Cullman County Sheriff’s Office, Cullman Electric Cooperative, Cullman Power Board, East Side Baptist Church, EvaBank, Peoples Bank of Alabama, Premier Bank of the South, REHAU, Topre America, Wallace State Community College, Walmart Distribution Center #6006 and the north Cullman Walmart on 157.
Childers gave a special thank-you to Publix for returning as the lead sponsor again this year.
“Their continued support makes a big difference in helping us serve even more families,” Childers said. “We’re also grateful to our student volunteers who earned hours toward our AmFirst $1,000 Future Philanthropist Scholarship. It was inspiring to see so many young people giving their time to give back.”
Childers said the mission is to eliminate barriers to education — and sometimes that starts with something as simple as a backpack and basic supplies.
“Because of the support of our community, we’re helping kids walk into school confident and prepared, and that can change everything for a student,” Childers said. “We also want to recognize and sincerely thank Dr. Shane Barnette with Cullman County Schools and Mr. Kyle Kallhoff with Cullman City Schools. The love and leadership they pour into our students and families are unmatched, and it’s an honor to partner with them through this drive each year.”
Childers said families in need should reach out to their school counselors before the school year starts.
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