The Hutchinson Fire Department, in partnership with Allen Samuels Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram and RCB Bank, is launching its 7th annual school supply drive this weekend to benefit students across Reno County.
Fire Marshal Michael Cain said the drive, which began in 2017, has grown beyond expectations. “We started not knowing what we were going to be able to do, and now we take supplies to every Reno County school,” he said.
The drive will be held at three locations:
• Dillons, 30th Street
• Dillons, 5th and Adams
• Walmart
Volunteers will be collecting donations on Friday from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
While traditional school items like paper, pencils, and crayons are welcome, Cain said the drive has expanded to meet other needs identified by teachers. “What makes our drive different is that we also collect snacks, personal hygiene products, and even clothing like socks and underwear,” he explained. “Teachers told us that many kids come to school without basic necessities.”
High-demand items include individually packaged snacks, juice boxes, bottled water, Kleenex, shampoo, deodorant, feminine hygiene products, backpacks, and highlighters. Delta Dental has donated 4,000 dental kits, but other hygiene items are still needed.
For those unable to donate during the weekend drive, supplies can be dropped off at any Hutchinson fire station, Allen Samuels Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram dealership, or RCB Bank branch through Monday Aug. 4. Cash and gift card donations are also accepted and will be used to purchase needed items.
Sorting of donations will begin early next week, with deliveries to Reno County schools scheduled for Thursday and Friday.