Donation Drive Helps Students Thrive

Nothing captures the excitement of back-to-school like the smell of new crayons and freshly sharpened pencils. But for some Edmond families, the cost of those basic supplies is out of reach. The Downtown Edmond Business Association (DEBA) sponsors an annual school supply collection drive to help bridge the gap. This year it’s happening from July 14-August 1, and anyone can contribute.

Supporting Students and Teachers

The donation drive began seven years ago and has grown every year. Community members drop off school supplies at downtown businesses, then they’re sorted and delivered to two local elementary schools, Sunset and Ida Freeman.

The donations not only make a difference for students, they’re a huge help to teachers as well. “Often teachers end up paying for items students need out of their own pockets,” says DEBA Executive Director Stephanie Carel. Receiving supplies makes the tough job of teaching a little easier. The supplies arrive before the school year starts, so teachers can ensure that their students begin the year with everything they need.

Donations come from all across the community. Many families with children in Edmond schools participate, but a large number of contributions also come from older people or single adults.

As Edmond has grown, needs have grown with it. “Some parents have to choose between feeding their family and buying all the school supplies they need,” says Stephanie. “We hope to alleviate some of that stress.”

How You Can Help

Community members are encouraged to donate anything on the Edmond Public Schools list of elementary school supplies, including items like crayons, notebooks, and paper. There’s also a need for teacher supplies like copy paper and basic items of new children’s clothing, such as underwear and socks.

The donation drive accepts cash contributions. DEBA uses those funds to meet any special needs the schools have. For example, they recently purchased a microwave for one of the schools to replace an oven that had broken.

When you donate supplies, Stephanie hopes you’ll take time to explore the vibrant business community in downtown Edmond. “People coming to drop off supplies at a business may not have been there before,” says Stephanie. “When you support local downtown businesses, you’re supporting our community who gives back to Edmond year round.”

July 14-August 1

Every donation helps, no matter how small. “A box of crayons or a few folders may not seem like much, but it adds up,” says Stephanie. “We have a lot of people who can afford to buy supplies, but there are also a lot of people who can’t. Edmond is a very generous community and this is
another way to give back.”

The 2023 school supply drive will run from July 14-August 1.
To find donation dropoff locations, visit downtownedmondok.com or DEBA’s Instagram and Facebook pages, or e-mail them at info@downtownedmondok.com.