YWCA St. Joseph collecting school supplies to support shelter kids

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) --The YWCA of St. Joseph is collecting school supplies through Thursday, Aug. 14 to help provide confidence and excitement to children staying in its shelter and heading to school.

The organization is seeking donations of fun, colorful items designed to boost students’ confidence and help them feel proud and prepared on their first day of school.

Suggested supplies include themed backpacks, glitter pens, bright folders, bold notebooks, silly erasers and cool lunchboxes.

Donations can be dropped off from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday at the St. Joseph YWCA, located at 304 N. 8th St.

Organizers said creativity is welcome, and items that bring joy—such as fun stickers, character folders, unique pencil cases or even encouraging notes tucked inside backpacks—can make a big difference.

The goal is to remind each child that their community supports them and that school can be a celebration.

For more information, visit the YWCA St. Joseph website at ywcasj.org or its social media pages.