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Kids In Need Foundation Launches 'Ready, Set, Restock' Campaign

In a national effort to support teachers and students facing critical shortages of classroom supplies, the Kids In Need Foundation (KINF) has launched the 'Ready, Set, Restock' campaign. As winter break approaches, it has become apparent that essential supplies are running out much faster than anticipated. Data shows that by the time students break for winter, 75% of the supplies that teachers begin the year with are completely exhausted. By spring, that number escalates to a staggering 96%.

The Challenge of Supply Shortages

According to KINF, over half of the teachers they support report that students often arrive on the first day of school without the necessary items on their supply list. Additionally, many students lack adequate materials to complete assignments at home. This supply crunch not only prevents students from engaging fully in their education but significantly hinders teachers’ efforts to create stimulating learning environments.

Cassie McLain, an educator involved with KINF, highlighted the misconception that supplies last the entire academic year. She remarked that basic items such as pencils and notebooks are quickly depleted through daily use. KINF emphasizes that these classroom supplies, though seemingly small, are vital for students' engagement and academic success. As one high school teacher from Kansas expressed, having the right supplies helps foster a sense of belonging in the classroom.

Campaign Goals and Community Involvement

The 'Ready, Set, Restock' campaign invites communities to participate actively. Supporters can contribute $10 to provide a child with essential supplies for the rest of the year or donate $250 to supply a classroom of 24 students. KINF distributes pre-assembled kits filled with crucial tools like pencils, crayons, glue sticks, and notebooks directly to under-resourced schools across the nation.

Annie Nelson Stanoch, KINF's VP of Impact Partnerships, stated, “When students have the right supplies, they're confident, creative, and ready to learn.” The campaign aims to maintain that momentum of learning throughout the school year, ensuring that classrooms are adequately supplied.

Ways to Get Involved

1. Donate: Support the campaign by visiting the 'Ready, Set, Restock' website to make an online contribution. Every little bit matters, whether it's $10 or $250.
2. Corporate Partnerships: Businesses have the opportunity to sponsor kits, cover distribution costs, or host community volunteer packing events. Companies can provide employees with a meaningful experience in seeing how their contributions make a tangible difference in students' lives.
3. Spread the Word: Engaging with KINF’s social media on platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram, and using the hashtag #ReadySetRestock helps raise awareness about the campaign and encourages others to get involved.
4. Participate in GivingTuesday: This year, KINF will share updates and impact stories during the month of December, including on GivingTuesday, which falls on December 2. Supporters are urged to contribute during this season of giving to ensure supplies reach students by the start of the new semester.

About Kids In Need Foundation

The Kids In Need Foundation is dedicated to providing equitable learning conditions by distributing necessary supplies and resources to teachers and students in schools where many families face economic hardships. Approximately 70% of students in these schools qualify for free or reduced-cost meals through the National School Lunch Program (NSLP). KINF’s initiatives focus on delivering effective, practical solutions that promote educational equity and support teachers and students in their academic journeys.

Join in the movement with KINF and contribute to creating an equipped and thriving learning environment for students nationwide.