Harford County Education Foundation's Stuff the Bus School Supply Drive
Posted July 9, 2025
Every child deserves to walk into the classroom prepared to learn and thrive. But for many families in Harford County, purchasing school supplies is a financial burden. That’s why Harford County Education Foundation’s annual Stuff the Bus campaign is so important—and how you can help change the story for thousands of students and teachers.
What is Stuff the Bus?
Stuff the Bus is a countywide school supply drive running July 21 through September 12, collecting essential tools like notebooks, pencils, crayons, backpacks, and more for students in need. Each year, with the support of individuals, businesses, and community partners, we fill literal and figurative buses full of supplies—delivering hope, dignity, and opportunity to our local schools.
Why It Matters
In Harford County, more than 11,000 students qualify for free and reduced-price meals—a clear sign that many families struggle to afford basic school essentials. When students lack the supplies they need, they’re more likely to fall behind, feel anxious, or disengage in the classroom.
Stuff the Bus gives these children a strong start—equipped, confident, and ready to succeed.
A Gift for Teachers, Too
Teachers care deeply about their students and often dip into their own pockets to make sure no child goes without. On average, teachers spend $500–$1,000 of their own money each year on classroom supplies.
By supporting Stuff the Bus, you're also easing the financial and emotional burden on teachers—helping them focus on what they do best: teaching, inspiring, and supporting the next generation.
Supplies from Stuff the Bus are distributed through the Foundation’s Tools for Schools Resource Center, where teachers can "shop" free of charge for the items their students need most.
The Impact
Thanks to this campaign, thousands of Harford County students start school with the tools they need—and teachers are equipped to create nurturing, resource-rich learning environments.
When students and teachers have what they need, everyone wins:
✔️ Better focus in the classroom
✔️ Increased student confidence and participation
✔️ Less stress on families and educators
✔️ Stronger school communities
How You Can Help
You don’t have to drive a bus to make a big impact!
đź›’ Purchase Supplies: Shop our online registries at Target, Walmart, or Amazon.
💙 Donate: Make a gift and we’ll buy the most needed supplies for you.
📦 Host a Drive: Get your workplace, club, or neighborhood involved—contact us to get started!
📢 Spread the Word: Share this campaign on social media using #StuffTheBusHarford.
Let’s come together to remove barriers, lift up educators, and give every child the chance to thrive this school year.
Donate or learn more at https://harfordeducation.org/programs/tools-for-schools/