Mid Oregon Credit Union launches annual ‘Supplies 4 Schools’ fundraiser

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Mid Oregon Credit Union, in partnership with the Family Access Network, has kicked off its annual Supplies 4 Schools drive. For over two decades, Mid Oregon members have generously supported Central Oregon K-12 students to get a good start on the school year with the supplies and tools they need to be successful.

Throughout the month of August, Mid Oregon is collecting school supplies and financial donations from members and the community at its seven branch locations in Bend, La Pine, Madras, Redmond, Prineville, and Sisters. Interested members and non-members can also donate online using their debit or credit cards by visiting the Supplies 4 Schools page at midoregon.com.

“FAN is an amazing organization that helps kids stay in school by removing barriers and helping meet their family’s basic needs,” says Kyle Frick, VP of Marketing and Community Relations for Mid Oregon Credit Union. “We are proud to partner with our community to collect school supplies to support the work of FAN in Central Oregon school districts for over 20 years!”

Supplies 4 Schools donations stay in the local communities where they are collected. Mid Oregon partners with local FAN advocates and school districts to distribute supplies to students in Deschutes, Crook, and Jefferson Counties who lack the necessities especially as classroom needs have changed.

“We see an ever-increasing need for modern school items like headphones and water bottles, as well as classic items such as notebooks and backpacks. These essential items are key for students to fully engage in their education. The school supplies donated by community drives, like Supplies 4 Schools allow every student the chance to come to school ready to learn,” says Kelsey Seymour, FAN Community Outreach Coordinator.

Most-needed items for the 2024-25 school year include water bottles, backpacks (all sizes), headphones, mechanical pencils and lead, 3” binders, college-ruled spiral notebooks, pencil pouches, and highlighters.

Family Access Network (FAN) offers assistance, possibility, and hope to Central Oregon families in need by connecting them with crucial resources to help children flourish in school and life. FAN is unique to Central Oregon, located in nearly all public schools across Central Oregon. Working through a dedicated FAN advocate, a child or parent is connected to essential services such as food, shelter, heating, health care, clothing, and more. Learn more at familyaccessnetwork.org.