United Way of Northern Santa Barbara County to Host ''Cram the Van'' School Supply Drive

With the new school year approaching, United Way of Northern Santa Barbara County (UWNSBC) is launching its annual "Cram the Van" event to collect essential school supplies for students and teachers in the Santa Maria and Lompoc communities.

The initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden on families and ensure every student has the necessary tools to succeed in the classroom. In partnership with local Walmart stores, the "Cram the Van" collection events are scheduled across three weekends in July and August.

Community members are invited to donate new school supplies, such as backpacks, notebooks, pens, pencils, crayons, binders, and other classroom essentials.

The "Cram the Van" events are scheduled as follows:

"We are thrilled to partner with our local Walmarts to support the students and teachers in our community," said Eddie Taylor of United Way of NSBC. "Every donation, no matter the size, will make a significant difference in a child's educational journey. We encourage everyone to come out and help us ‘CRAM THE VAN!'"

For those unable to attend the weekend drives, collection bins will be placed at various businesses and community centers throughout the Santa Maria, Orcutt, and Lompoc areas.

All supplies collected will be sorted and distributed directly to schools and students within the local communities, ensuring the donations help children in Northern Santa Barbara County.

About United Way of Northern Santa Barbara County: United Way of Northern Santa Barbara County is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the education, financial stability, and health of every person in our community. By bringing together community partners, donors, and volunteers, we work to create lasting, positive change.

For more information about the "Cram the Van" event, including a complete list of donation bin locations or volunteer opportunities, please visit www.unitedwaylife.org or call (805)-332-9036. Follow our social media for our ten barrel locations.