Children look forward to starting their school year with fresh, new supplies.  But not every family is able to afford that expense.  You can help make sure that children in this area will get a good start this year by picking up some basic supplies that are on sale right now.  Area schools are partnering with this effort by identifying students who should receive the supplies. 

Here are some options for donating school supplies:

Lincoln/Lyon Counties:  Look for collection barrels in your workplace, at participating retail locations or other convenient drop-off spots.  A Knology sponsored Mello Yello Share Your Mello event will be at the Marshall Armory on Wed., July 25 (11-1). A collection barrel will also be located at the Marshall Night Out event at Justice Park on Tuesday, Aug. 7 (3:30 - 7:30). 

Canby:  Collection boxes are located throughout the community.  Collection will also occur at the Canby Night Out event at Central Park on Tuesday, Aug. 7.

Cash/check donations are also appreciated so that specific items can be purchased.  United Way of Southwest MN is fiscal agent for the school supply drives and will make sure that funds are used wisely.  Send your tax deductible donation to United Way, PO Box 41, Marshall, MN 56258 (please note Stuff the Bus and your community on the memo line).   Call our office if you have questions or can help sort and distribute school supplies, 507-929-2273. 

The Minnesota Optometric Association coordinates FREE eye exams for children going into Kindergarten. 

Dr. Kristel Schamber, past United Way board member, is accepting appointments at Midwest Vision Center, 1420 E. College Drive, Marshall, on Wed.,  August 8.

Selected Imagination Library books now available for visually impaired children

Remember this simple three digit number to call if you are seeking information about programs in your community. (Cell phone users may need to dial 800-543-7709).  Calls are free, confidential and may be helpful to you.

Click here for more info.