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 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.
Our incredible friends at Old Navy and First Student show up EVERY YEAR, ready to serve, have fun, and ensure students have what they need to succeed.
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!
Supplies will be collected or can be dropped off at BLIX Elementary on the morning of Tuesday, August 18.
Thank you for helping us support local students! Collection dates: July 27 – August 17.
➤ [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.
➤ Block Party sponsor opportunities.
➤ Check out our Block Party event page here!
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 BLIX Elementary on Tuesday, August 17.
➤ [Click for Amazon Wish List]
➤Only new, unused school supplies will be accepted. Thank you for understanding!
Volunteer to Sort & Stuff Backpacks
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 BLIX Elementary.
➤ [Sign up to volunteer with collecting and sorting]
Volunteer at the Block Party
Be part of the big day! Greet families, distribute backpacks, and make the day memorable on Tuesday, August 27 at BLIX Elementary 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 with First Student school buses will happen from July 27- August 17. 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 there is a tight turnaround, and we do not have staff capacity to offer any other options for pick-up.
2026 Collection Sites:
TAPCO Credit Union
U.S. Oil & Refinery