Block the Bus: Helping the School Year Start off Right!

With September in full swing, children are back to school meeting new friends, preparing for an exciting new year of learning. While their cares may amount to who will be in their class, or if the teacher will be nice, their parents on the other hand, are busily combing for new clothes, puzzling over the school lists and for some becoming quite anxious over finding the money to cover it all.

Back to school can be a very difficult time financially for many families in the southwestern region. For this reason, the Southwestern Community Youth Network, along with Community Education Network, have partnered for several years with VOCM for their Block the Bus campaign. 

Generous gifts of school supplies and money are donated by concerned and caring individuals throughout the region. As we all know and are proud of, the people in this region are very giving and generous and this year proved no different.

On August 18, 2017 VOCM radio personalities, CEN staff and Stephenville Lions Club members were on hand to graciously accept any and all donations. Many stopped by to enjoy a delicious bbq hotdog, cold beverage or bag of chips offering a donation in return for the cause.

For several kids in the area, climbing aboard the big yellow bus, parked at the Indian Head Coop was fun. For 6 year old Lexie, who excitedly declared she is going to Kindergarten this year, was happy to see so many brightly colored backpacks waiting to adorn the backs of those children needing a little extra help preparing for the school year.

For three years, David Webb has given freely of his time to drive the bus for this campaign. Having raised his own children and now a proud grandfather, he understands the financial burden many families face, especially with more than one child to get ready. “This is a great program, it’s great that it’s there to help so many people. I’m glad to be a part of it”

Throughout the 4 hours dozens of folks came by, some with an item or two, others with a trunk-load. Some said they’ve been doing this for many years, while for some it was their first time. Regardless, the end result was amazing-the bus was blocked with an additional $1349 collected in cash.

With cash in hand, CEN staff was off and shopping, piling carts high with exercise books, pencils, crayons and erasers and so much more. Sorted and divided, each of the 18 schools in the southwestern area will receive supplies appropriate for their students.

CEN & Associates is a proud partner of Block the Bus and expresses many thanks to all who participated in any manner to ensure this worthwhile campaign was a success.