Fifth Third Bank, Education Foundation of Manatee Partner to Collect School Supplies for Children in Need July 17, 2012

Fifth Third Bank (South Florida) has partnered with the Education Foundation of Manatee to collect school supplies for the bank’s fourth annual “Back to School” Supply Drive. From July 9 to August 1, donations will be accepted at all Fifth Third financial centers in Manatee and Sarasota counties.

“With this drive, we’re striving to help children and families by providing them with the tools for success,” said David Call, president and CEO of Fifth Third Bank (South Florida). “We encourage the public to support our children, teachers and schools by donating at any local Fifth Third branch.”

Based on the number of free and reduced lunches provided in Manatee County, the Education Foundation estimates the student poverty rate is between 52 to 56 percent. And a growing number of schools are facing supply shortages caused by budget and funding cuts.

“Just like other Florida counties near the beach, we have an economy that depends on tourism for its success, and many families are struggling more than usual in the current recession,” said Tricia McKay Powers, director of development for the Education Foundation of Manatee. “Purchasing pencils and paper aren’t as vital as buying your next meal – and some families may not be able to contribute to school supplies at all. This is where the community’s donations really help make an impact.”

The most urgently needed items include: glue sticks, crayons, index cards, pens, pencils, pink erasers, paper (both lined and plain printer paper), two-pocket folders, dry erase markers, spiral notebooks, binders, rulers, markers, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes and flash drives.