Having ample school supplies is an important part of a successful education, said Nicolas Lareau, of Edward Jones in Washington, who has started a local school supply drive.
“We are trying to let people know that there are children out there who need an extra little help when it comes to school supplies,” said Lareau. “Quality education is very important these days, as it becomes more and more competitive.”
Any items listed on supply lists are needed, regardless of grades or districts, said Lareau.
“Your common items like Crayons, pencils, notebooks and scissors are needed, but may be even as much as a backpack,” said Lareau. “We do not want too much of a repetition, but every item is needed.”
Lareau said that this is the first year his office has organized such a drive. The idea came from just knowing about other fundraisers and programs that have helped out the community.
“This is something timely that the vast majority of people could benefit from,” said Lareau. “We wanted to be involved with that and let folks know that we are here to help them.”
Depending on the amount collected, the items will be either disbursed to one or to several schools.
“Primarily, what we are is a facilitator of collecting supplies and then passing those off to the different school districts, as best we can,” said Lareau. “So, if they see a child that needs certain utensils, we will let them decide how to best allocate those resources.”
Item can be dropped off from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily at the Edward Jones Investment office, at 1419 Washington Road, located next to the old Bauer furniture store.
“If someone is passing by, they can feel free to stop in,” said Lareau. “We will have a box available to collect those goods.”
So far, his office has been able to gather a few items, mainly from clients, but not nearly enough, said Lareau. That is why he and his office staff are asking everyone to contribute if they can.
“We wanted to get the word out. If we all gather our resources and give to those in need, it will make it a little easier on families these days,” said Lareau. “We would like to see people chip in just a small bit. If we can all work together and give a little bit, we can make it easier where it is most important, and that is with a quality education for our children today.”
