Distribution Day

FREE Distribution of supplies and clothing will take place Thursday, August 16th, 2011 from 8am to 6pm at Jefferson Middle School, 2200 Conger St. NW, Olympia, WA 98502 (off Division Street on Olympia’s Westside, Intercity Bus Route #45.) Open to all families in need.

Upon arrival, each family receives a number and gets an approximate time for admission. Each child will be able to choose 2 or 3 outfits and a backpack filled with school supplies (based on individual school lists). Families should plan on spending several hours shopping as the event is usually crowded.

Q. When will the free school supplies & clothes be available?
A. 8am-6pm Thursday August 16th at Jefferson Middle School 2200 Conger (between Division and Cooper point on Olympia’s Westside) Intercity Transit #45 Bus stops there.

Q. I can't get to the school until later, will there still be stuff?
A. The supplies and available clothing is spread throughout the day. It's impossible to predict how many people will show up but based on last year's turnout there should be clothing and supplies all day.

Q. But don’t I have to be lined up early or camp all night to get good item?
A. NO. In fact camping on the school grounds is illegal and would gain you no advantage. At 7:55 am we will distribute numbers for admittance. If you receive a high number you can come back later and be let in when you arrive as long as they have gotten to your number!

Q. Is there a line? I can't get to the school until later, will there still be stuff?
A. Don’t be surprised if there is a line but we have made every effort to have lots of stuff.

Q. What proof do I have to bring?
A. No proof of financial need is required. We all trust if your family is coming to ask for help that you need it.

Q. What will my kids receive?
A. A packet of required school supplies for each grade, and we hope, a new or used backpack. In addition there is a room full of gently used clothing where each child may select a few outfits.

Q. Can you help adults?
Q. I live in Tacoma, can you help me?
A. No, unfortunately the distribution day is for children enrolled in Thurston County schools only.

Q. Is there handicap parking or access?
U. There is very little parking close to the doors, but the site is accessible via sidewalk. If you can get to the site, there is help to carry supplies and clothing to your car or other transportation.

Q. What else is going on?
A. At least until noon various local agencies that help families will have booths outside the cafeteria with information on their programs.

Q. I need help with rent, medical bills, and other issues or I can’t make it Thursday the 16th.
A. LRS only distributes school supplies & clothing this one day. Your best bet is to call the Thurston-Mason Counties Crisis Clinic for information and referrals at 586-2800.

If you know a family who may need help, please let them know!