2025 Stuff the Bus School Supply Drive & Block Party: Because BEING PRESENT MATTERS

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At Communities In Schools of Tacoma, we believe that BEING PRESENT MATTERS—especially when students are returning to the classroom. Our annual Stuff the Bus School Supply Drive & Block Party ensures that students across Pierce County start the year equipped, confident, and ready to thrive, supported by trusted Site Coordinators who are present for them every step of the way.

How to BE PRESENT for students this back-to-school season:

Host a School Supply Drive
Thank you for your interest in serving as a Stuff the Bus collection site!

At this time, we are no longer distributing bins or printed posters. However, we still welcome your support in collecting school supplies. We’re happy to provide a digital poster for you to use in promoting your drive.

Collected supplies can be dropped off at Oakland on the morning of August 18.

Thank you for helping us support local students! Collection dates: July 28 – August 15.
➤ [Sign up to host a collection site]

Sponsor the Campaign & Block Party
Your sponsorship is more than a donation—it’s a commitment to being present for students all year long. Sponsors help provide critical school supplies and support the annual Block Party that celebrates our community.
➤ Email Nicole Jackson at njackso1@cisoftacoma.org to sponsor.

Donate Supplies or Funds
Can’t host a drive? You can still be present from wherever you are. Order from our Amazon list, make a monetary gift, or drop off brand new supplies at Oakland High School 3702 E. McKinley Ave. Download school supply list here.

➤ [Sign up to donate funds]

➤ [Click for Amazon Wish List]

➤Only new, unused school supplies will be accepted. Thank you for understanding!

Volunteer to Sort & Stuff
Help us prepare thousands of backpacks! Volunteers are needed to collect supplies from drive sites and assist with sorting and packing from August 18-20 at Oakland High School.
➤ All shifts have been filled

Volunteer at the Block Party
Be part of the big day! Greet families, distribute backpacks, and make the day memorable on Thursday, August 21 at Oakland High School.
➤ [Sign up to volunteer to assist with the Block Party]

Reserve a Table at the Block Party
Are you a youth-serving organization or local business? Be present for families by sharing resources and giveaways at this vibrant community event.
➤ [Sign up to reserve a table at the Block Party]

For questions or more information, contact Nicole Jackson at njackso1@cisoftacoma.org or 253-571-5166.

Let’s come together to make sure every student feels seen, supported, and ready to learn—because BEING PRESENT MATTERS.

BEING PRESENT MATTERS Collection Sites

Supply collection will happen from July 28- August 15. School Supply pick-up is scheduled for the morning of August 18th. We will arrange your specific pick-up time as we get closer to the date.

Please ensure that you plan for a pick-up on August 18th. This year is a tight turnaround, and we do not have any other options for pick-up.

2025 SPONSORS (Thank you!!)

United Way of Pierce County

TAPCO Credit Union

Sponsorship Opportunities

Click for download of sponsorship opportunities