San Diego County Credit Union. Photo: Gina Yarbrough/San Diego County News

By SDCN Staff

San Diego, CA–San Diego County Credit Union is collecting monetary donations to purchase back-to-school supplies for students experiencing homelessness–to help set these students up for success in the coming school year. 

Having a backpack and necessary back-to-school supplies is essential for success in learning. The annual Stuff the Bus campaign, celebrating its twelfth year, was launched in partnership with SDCCU, the San Diego County Office of Education, and iHeartMedia radio stations in support of Live Well San Diego. A small donation can make a big difference in the life of a student in need – just $20 can provide a student with a backpack full of school supplies.

“We are proud to partner with the San Diego County Office of Education and iHeartMedia to equip students in need with new supplies for the upcoming school year,” said Teresa Campbell, SDCCU president and CEO. “We are continually inspired by the generosity of our community and how San Diego Unites to support local students experiencing homelessness.”

More than 24,000 school-age children were identified as experiencing homelessness during the last school year. Homelessness for school-age children can mean living in a shelter, sharing a residence with multiple families, living in a car or trailer in San Diego County, or sharing a room in an apartment with relatives. Homelessness is not limited to urban, downtown San Diego– it also affects suburban school districts all over the county.

“Every year, Stuff the Bus helps ensure that students experiencing homelessness start the school year with the supplies they need to feel prepared, confident, and ready to learn,” said Susie Terry, coordinator, Homeless Education Services at the San Diego County Office of Education. “For many families facing housing instability, these donations help remove barriers and provide a sense of belonging during what can be an incredibly challenging time. We are grateful for SDCCU’s continued partnership and for the generosity of our community in helping students feel supported, valued, and equipped for success.”

The community can donate at all San Diego County Credit Union branch locations or online at sdccu.com/donate now through July 31.