2008 Little Red Schoolhouse Distribution FAQ

Q. When will the free school supplies & clothes be available?
A. 8am-6pm Thursday August 21st 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 7:55am we will distribute numbers by random lottery to see who will get in first. 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. Early in the day, there is often a line, but it usually dissipates by around noon-1pm.

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. The LRS project has many more backpacks than last year and, depending on the demand, plan to have one for each child.
In addition there is a room full of gently used clothing where each child may select a few outfits. There will NOT be socks and underwear for everyone this year! Instead we have concentrated on providing backpacks & calculators this year. There may be a small amount of new socks & underwear.

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 21st.
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.

Q. I want to volunteer or contribute; can I still do so?
A. Contributions can be sent to Little Red Schoolhouse Project PO Box 6302, Olympia, WA 98507. Prospective volunteers should call Cheryl Huffman at Community Action Council 438-1100 x113.