A popular fundraiser is ongoing in Jefferson to get kids ready for the upcoming school year.

New Opportunities Greene County Coordinator Teresa Lansman says they are in the middle of the “Back to School Supply Drive.” This fundraiser is to help get kids needed school supplies and a new backpack before the start of the 2023-24 school year. Some of the items include pencils, markers, pens, folders, scissors, binders and loose leaf paper, among other items. 

Last year about 170 children received school items and Lansman says families can still sign up to receive school items by August 11th. She points out there are several places that are collecting donations, including Jefferson Telecom, local churches and her office at 1401 North Elm Street in Jefferson. She adds the deadline for donations is August 15th and she will accept monetary donations at her office.