Lee County Stuff the Bus Event to Help Students in Need
As the cost of everyday essentials—from gas to groceries—continues to climb, families are feeling the squeeze, and school supplies are no exception.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the price of school items like pencils, notebooks, and folders increased by nearly 24% between 2021 and 2023. For many parents and caregivers, back-to-school shopping is a major financial hurdle. And for teachers, the burden is even greater. North Carolina educators spend an average of $1,338 out of pocket annually to equip their classrooms, the fourth-highest rate in the country.
That’s why The Salvation Army of Lee County is stepping in with its annual Stuff the Bus drive—an effort to support students, teachers, and schools during this critical time.
Event Details:
- Walmart, South Horner Boulevard, Sanford
- Saturday, July 19
- 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
A yellow school bus will be parked outside Walmart as volunteers and staff collect essential school supplies. Shoppers can pick up a supply list on-site and drop off donations directly into the bus. All items collected will be delivered to the Lee County Schools Central Office and the Salvation Army’s local office for distribution to schools with the greatest need.
“Every child deserves to start the school year with the tools they need to succeed, and every teacher deserves a classroom equipped for possibility,” says Dotty Dalphon, Service Center Director for The Salvation Army of Lee County.
“Stuff the Bus is more than just a school supply drive. It’s neighbors helping neighbors and ensuring that every student has a chance to thrive.”
A Real Impact on Local Classrooms
The donations collected will directly support both students and teachers. Sara Allen, school social worker at Southern Lee High School, emphasizes how important these supplies are.
“Not every student has the joy of showing up with new notebooks or crayons,” she says. “Thanks to community support, we can make sure every child feels prepared and excited no matter their financial situation.”
She adds that donated supplies are also critical throughout the year, especially in emergencies such as house fires or flooding when students lose their belongings.
Simple Acts, Big Results
The Lee County Education Foundation, which has invested more than $1 million into local schools through initiatives like the Head of Class Project, is also supporting the drive.
“People genuinely want to help, but they often don’t know how,” says Wendy Wicker-Phillips, the foundation’s new executive director. “Stuff the Bus makes it easy to pick up a few extra items while you shop and know you’re making a real difference.”
“When our community gives, even in small amounts, it adds up to something powerful,” says Susan Keller, board chair of the Foundation. “Supporting students supports the entire community.”
Can’t Make It on July 19? You Can Still Help
If you can’t attend the event in person, there are still ways to give:
- Amazon Wish List: Shop online and ship directly to The Salvation Army's Sanford office.
- Drop Off Supplies: Bring items to 1740 S. Horner Blvd., Sanford
- Monday–Thursday: 9 a.m.–12 p.m. and 1–4 p.m.
Have questions? Call The Salvation Army of Lee County at 919-718-1717.
Together, let’s make sure every student in Lee County starts the year with confidence and every teacher with the support they deserve.