2016-07-13

OPELOUSAS, La (KLFY) – In St. Landry Parish, United Way is gearing up for their annual ‘Stuff the Bus’ program.

For the 5th year now, the St. Landry-Evangeline United Way has been collecting school supplies to distribute to school kids in need.

‘Stuff the Bus’ is one of United Way’s major programs.

“We have a very high poverty rate and children living in poverty is very high, and so this helps bridge that gap,” said Ginger LeCompte, Executive Director at St. Landry-Evangeline United Way.

LeCompte says the program works to provide supplies and school uniforms for as many children as possible.

“Its impact is seen in our school system,” said LeCompte.

“Many children here their parents can’t afford school supplies,” said Susan Fisher, Special Projects Coordinator at St. Landry-Evangeline United Way.

Fisher says the program helps some parents who are experiencing financial struggles.

“The supplies right now to get a child into school, with uniforms, bookbags, and school supplies is way over $100,” said Fisher. “If you’ve got multiple children you’re trying to get in school, it’s a killer.”

All supplies collected go straight to the St. Landry School Board Office. The items are then distributed to those in need, but Fisher says their main target are young students.

“We actually in the past have given to all the elementary schools, and that’s who we target,” said Fisher.

Overall, Fisher says their main goal is just making sure the students in St. Landry and Evangeline Parishes start the school year off right.

‘Stuff the Bus’ will run from Aug.1-5.

Items can be dropped off at United Way in Opelousas and Ville Platte City Hall. Other collection sites include: St. Landry Homestead Federal Savings Bank and Whitney Bank locations in Opelousas, Ville Platte, Eunice, and Port Barre.

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