As our summer garden program comes to an end, one of our favorite traditions begins.
On the final Saturday of the season, every child gets to “shop” for the school supplies they need. But instead of handing everyone the same bag of supplies, we let them choose the items that are most important to them.
Some kids need calculators, folders, notebooks, and pencils. Others are excited to pick out colorful pens, fun erasers, markers, or a backpack they truly love. Some head straight for deodorant, body wash, shampoo, socks, or laundry detergent. Others are looking for hair ties, bracelet-making kits, or even a basketball.
To some people, a sparkly pen or a favorite notebook might seem like a small thing. To a child, it can make the first day of school feel exciting. We want every young person to walk into school feeling prepared, confident, and proud of what they have.
That’s why we’re collecting everything that helps kids head back to school with confidence. School supplies, hygiene items, fun extras, and everyday essentials are all appreciated.
Some ideas include:
- Backpacks
- Notebooks and paper
- Folders and binders
- Pencils, pens, markers, crayons, and highlighters
- Calculators
- Erasers and pencil pouches
- Water bottles
- Socks
- Deodorant, body wash, shampoo, toothbrushes, and toothpaste
- Hair ties and hair accessories
- Laundry detergent
- Bracelet-making kits and small crafts
- Basketballs and other outdoor play items
Every donation helps a child choose something that fits their needs and personality.
You can help by purchasing items from our Amazon Wishlist or by dropping off donations on Saturdays at the garden or at one of our local business drop-off locations:
- Confluence Graphics – 265 E. Hampton Ave Milwaukee, WI 53217
- 1700 Pull Up – 1848 W Fond Du Lac Ave Milwaukee, WI 53205
- Vantage Healthy and Fit – 2060 N. Humboldt Blvd. Ste. 301 (3rd Floor) Milwaukee, WI 53212
- Cafe Corazon – Riverwest, 3129 N Bremen St Milwaukee, WI
Thank you for helping us make the start of the school year a little brighter for the incredible kids in our community.
