The WS/FCS Educator Warehouse will once again open its doors for teachers in need of school supplies starting July 31.
Entering its 15th year of operation, the warehouse offers teachers a convenient one-stop shop where they can pick up plenty of books, pencils, crayons, scissors, paper, notebooks, binders, and more for free. Because many families struggle to afford new school supplies every year, the warehouse plays a critical role in making sure no student starts school without access to adequate supplies.
Teachers can register an account with the program online and set up an appointment to visit the warehouse once per nine weeks. While there, they receive 35 points (or 37 if they bring their own bag) that they can spend on various supplies. The point system helps guarantee that supplies are spread around to as many different classrooms as possible.
Volunteer Karel Chandler says that local residents and community partners have turned out in full force this year to make sure that the warehouse is fully stocked ahead of the start of school. The program is supported entirely by donations, and it’s always encouraging to see how many people in Winston-Salem and Forsyth County are willing to step up and support students in need.
However, there’s also plenty of room for more volunteers at the warehouse. Chandler says that anyone willing to lend their time and help teachers get what they need is in for a rewarding service experience.
“We always need volunteers,” Chandler said. “This just doesn’t happen without volunteers.”
The warehouse will hold its open house on Thursday, July 31 from 3-8 pm. This event will be for new teachers only. New and veteran teachers can both come shop on Friday, August 1 from 9 am to 8 pm and on Saturday, August 2 from 9 am to 3 pm. After that, regular warehouse hours will be from 3:30-5:30 pm every Tuesday and Thursday, as well as the first and third Saturday of every month from 9-11 am. The warehouse is located in the pods at Diggs-Latham Elementary School.
To learn more about the Educator Warehouse and the registration process, go online to https://www.wsfcs.k12.nc.us/page/educator-warehouse. For more information on donating and volunteering, call Karel Chandler at (336) 817-1673 or email kchandler3@msn.com.