Durham Charity Launches Annual "Fill That Bus!" Drive

The annual “Fill That Bus!” drive, organized by Crayons2Calculators in partnership with the DPS Foundation, is now underway, aiming to collect school supplies and financial donations to support Durham teachers, students, and families. As the new school year approaches, the need for essential classroom materials becomes ever more critical.

Despite the contributions from school administrators and families, many teachers still find themselves spending an average of $750 out-of-pocket each year to ensure their students have the necessary supplies. The drive addresses this significant supply gap by providing resources directly to those in need.

Teachers Face Ongoing Challenges

Teachers across the U.S. spend their own money on classroom supplies, with 94% of educators contributing out-of-pocket. Additionally, teachers earn 19% less than their similarly skilled counterparts in other professions, making these personal expenditures particularly burdensome.

Supporting Durham Teachers and Students

Crayons2Calculators continues its mission to support Durham Public Schools teachers by securing supplies that help educators fulfill their roles effectively. The organization emphasizes that the impact of a great teacher extends beyond individual students, benefiting the entire community.

Ways to Contribute

From now until Aug. 9, donors can support the drive through various means:

• Financial contributions can be made online, allowing for the bulk purchase of supplies.
• Virtual supply donations can be made through Amazon, Staples, and Walmart wish lists.
• In-kind supply drives can be hosted by workplaces, neighborhoods, associations, and community networks.
• Fundraising pages can be created by community members to invite peer contributions.

Major sponsors, including Capitol Broadcasting Company, Inc., Merck, Staples, ServPro South Durham & Orange Counties, and DPS Foundation, are already involved, and other companies are encouraged to join.

Donation Drop-Off Locations

• American Tobacco Campus/CBC Real Estate.
• Atomic Clock Brewing.
• Beer Durham.
• Best Buy.
• Crafts & Drafts.
• Dick’s Sporting Goods.
• DSSLVR Brewing Co.
• Duke Regional Hospital.
• Durham Bulls Athletic Park.
• Durham Farmers Market.
• Flying Bull Beer Company.
• Glass Jug Beer Lab.
• Hi-Wire Brewing.
• Levin Jewish Community Center.
• Proximity Brewing.
• Staples.
• Weldon Mills Distillery.

Upcoming Event

A school supply event, The CoCo Drip, will be held on Saturday, Aug. 3, from noon to 3 p.m. at Forest Hills Event Field, 1639 University Dr.

If You Miss the Drive

Supporters can drop off supplies at the Crayons2Calculators warehouse, mail check contributions, or donate online anytime at www.crayons2calculators.org. All donations are tax-deductible.

About Crayons2Calculators

Founded in 2006, Crayons2Calculators aims to equip Durham teachers with essential classroom supplies to promote student learning and success. Last year, the nonprofit distributed over $101,000 worth of supplies to more than 2,277 teachers, helping reduce barriers to education for students across the district.

For more information, contact Dr. Eunice O’Neal Sanders at director@crayons2calculators.org.

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