Help Fill 30,000 Backpacks! Join Palm Beach’s Stuff the Bus Drive

12025 US Hwy 1, Juno Beach, FL, USA - As the summer sun blazes down on our beloved Palm Beach County, a compassionate initiative is gearing up to make a difference in our classrooms. Today, July 18, 2025, is not just another day; it marks the launch of the second annual Stuff the Bus campaign, which is all about supporting our hardworking teachers and the countless students who depend on them.

CBS12 News reports that this vital campaign aims to alleviate the financial burden many teachers face when it comes to stocking their classrooms with essential supplies. By encouraging donations at participating McDonald’s restaurants throughout the county, the initiative hopes to gather everything from notebooks and pencils to art supplies and backpacks. The reality is, every little bit helps—donating as little as $25 can fill a backpack for a student in need.

The Numbers Behind the Need

According to CBS12 News, about one in five children in Palm Beach County lives below the poverty line, impacting around 35,000 students who often arrive at school without basic necessities. This situation is exacerbated by the unfortunate truth that Florida ranks 47th in the nation for per-student spending. It comes as no surprise, therefore, that many teachers find themselves dipping into their own pockets—an average of $616 last year—to ensure their students don’t go without.

The Education Foundation of Palm Beach County, who initiated this campaign, is stepping up to connect the business and philanthropic communities with public schools. James Gavrilos, the organization’s president and CEO, emphasizes the campaign’s importance and the foundation’s broader mission. The foundation does a good deal more than just this annual campaign; it allocates nearly $2 million annually in grants to innovative teachers, alongside the Red Apple Supply program which distributes over $1.5 million in supplies yearly.

Locations to Donate

Donations for Stuff the Bus can be dropped off at various McDonald’s locations, making it easy for everyone in our community to lend a hand. Here’s where you can pitch in:

• Boca Raton: 2911 Clint Moore Road, 710 Yamato Road
• Boynton Beach: 9858 Military Trail, 9915 Jog Road
• Delray Beach: 14529 Military Trail, 7229 W. Atlantic Ave.
• Juno Beach: 12025 US Hwy 1
• Jupiter: 181 N. US Hwy 1, 10030 W. Indiantown Road
• Lake Worth: 4614 Hypoluxo Road, 7793 Lake Worth Road
• Lantana: 6342 Lantana Road
• Palm Beach Gardens: 3805 Northlake Blvd, 9880 Alt A1A
• Wellington: 1470 Greenview Shores
• West Palm Beach: 2755 S. State Road #7

Continuing the Legacy

The Red Apple Supply program, which started with just four schools, has expanded to 96 and aims to serve even more. It’s a heartwarming sight to see teachers shopping for supplies free of charge at their dedicated Red Apple Supply Store. This shift not only helps in bridging the gap but also fosters a sense of community and mutual support among educators and students alike.

As we dive deeper into the back-to-school season, let’s remember that our teachers deserve all the help they can get. The Education Foundation of Palm Beach County reminds us that spreading the word about initiatives like Stuff the Bus can amplify its impact. So, whether you donate supplies or simply share the campaign with friends and family, every action counts.

The heart of Palm Beach County beats strong with community spirit, and the success of this campaign is a testament to that camaraderie. Together, let’s give our educators and their students the tools they need for a successful school year!

For more details, you can visit the campaign’s page on CW34.