Fulton City School District held its annual School Supply Giveaway on August 26, inviting families to an evening of food, fun, and everything needed for an exceptional start to the new school year.

Held at the Fulton War Memorial, the evening acted as a partner to the district’s “Stuff-a-Bus” program, which saw local families and organizations donate school supplies for FCSD families. At the giveaway event, students received supplies along with hygiene products and gently used clothing items. Also on hand were a dozen local hairstylists offering free haircuts for a fresh, first day look. Outside, families could find valuable resources at informational and activity tables from any number of local organizations and businesses. Delicious free food was offered from seven nearby restaurants.

“Getting ready to go back to school comes with many stressors for families,” said Karen Noel, the site coordinator for the program that ran the event. “When our kids and their families leave this event, they are set for that first day of school and have made many crucial connections with our district and community partners. Kids get backpacks with school supplies, a gently used outfit, a bag of personal products, a haircut, participate in fun activities and have full bellies. Back to school is an exciting time to be celebrated!”

The Stuff-A-Bus campaign and subsequent giveaway started 21 years ago under Fulton Teachers Association member John Nagelschmidt and has expanded ever since. This year saw an impressive 512 families in attendance – the most the event has ever drawn.

Participation and donations came from organizations such as The City of Fulton, the Special Events Committee, Fulton Savings Bank, Stewarts, Wegmans, Walmart, Great Eastern White Out, Great Lakes Heating and Air Solutions, Good Guys Barber Shop, Hair We Are, Fulton Sunrise Rotary, Clinton’s Ditch, SKS, Dental Health Solutions, the United Way, and the Fulton Teachers’ Association. Restaurants included Chubby’s Sports Bar and Grill, Mimi’s Diner, Lakeview Lanes, Emeiterio’s Pizzeria, Tavern on the Lock, Chester’s Last Stand, and Muskies Sports Bar and Grill.

“We couldn’t provide this experience without our community partners and such a dedicated group of people,” added Noel. “We will continue to do this because it’s what’s best for our kids.”