SOUTH SOUND

Thurston County-Area School-Supply Drive Seeks Donations

Jul 15, 2026, 10:10 AM

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Originally published on South Sound.

The North Thurston Education Foundation kicked off its annual Forgotten Back-to-School Needs Drive earlier this month to help students experiencing homelessness or financial hardship.

The drive, which runs through Aug. 29, provides students in need with everyday necessities.

This year, the most-needed items (new only) include:

Full-size shampoo and conditionerBody lotionSanitary pads (thin and thick)Deodorant (men’s and women’s)Laundry podsTissues and toilet paperLiquid dish soapChildren’s tennis shoes (boys and girls, size 12 and 13)Youth and adult athletic shoes ( boys and girls, sizes 1-11)Boys and girls socks and underwear (all sizes, kids through adult large)

The foundation said that last year, more than 954 students in North Thurston Public Schools experienced homelessness, and more than 6,018 students lived in households facing financial hardship.

Head here for a list of drop-off locations or to make a financial donation online.

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