PORTLAND, Maine — As students cram in required summer reading or final beach days, thousands will not have to think twice about having the right supplies to learn.
Ruth's Reusable Resources in Portland gives donated school supplies and other non-classroom related items back to the community. Over the years, tens of thousands of backpacks filled to the brim with supplies has found its way home with Maine students.
"No kid should feel like they are less than another kid who has school supplies," said Ruth Libby of Ruth’s Reusable Resources. "They shouldn't have to sit in the back of the classroom because they feel bad. It really is just so every child has the same opportunity of learning and creating with the supplies."
Recently, Ruth's has helped out the influx of asylum seekers in Maine. Hundreds of slippers and socks have been given to families at the Portland Expo. Over 50 backpacks with games and other necessities were given to children when the first wave of asylees arrived.
Unum has partnered with Ruth's and volunteers have packed more than 25,000 backpacks over the last six years and. Between August 7-8, hundreds of Unum employees will be putting together supplies to give to thousands of Maine students.
“Ruth’s vision in assisting public education and youth is unparalleled,” said Steve Alpren, community relations specialist. “Getting affordable supplies to teachers and schools is paramount to a good school year.”
Libby says they are always looking for volunteers, and they take in financial and supply donations to replenish teachers throughout the year.
Organizations receiving backpack donations
United Way York County – 1,000 backpacks
Biddeford Middle School - N/A
Presumpscot Elementary School, Portland - 300
Arthur Gould School, South Portland - 30
Rose Gaffney Elementary School, Machias - 348
Cornville Regional Charter School - 356
Granite Street School, Millinocket - 515
Southern Aroostook Community School and RSU 50 - 357
Songo Locks, Naples - 100
Case managers and principal requests - 1,300+
