News - Local/State

Saturday, Aug. 30, 2008

School-supply drive ends with a smile -- and 'thanks'

Troopers take safe-driving message on the road

The big brown truck pulled up to The Herald's offices on Friday. Its cargo: school supplies.

"Thank you," a lone voice called out on behalf of every needy Rock Hill student who couldn't.

After the truck, a church member hand-delivered school supplies. Then, two cars and a van pulled up to The Herald's door with school gear.

Once again, that voice joined by two others called out, "Thank you."

Two weeks ago, The Herald, in partnership with the Rock Hill school district, began a school-supply drive for students whose families can't afford the basics they need to kick off their school year.

The successful drive ended at 5 p.m. Friday.

"Thank you, readers, for your generosity," said Debbie Abels, president and publisher of The Herald. "Many children will be better positioned for success in school this year because you've gotten them off to a good beginning."

Rock Hill schools Superintendent Lynn Moody said, "We are just overwhelmed by the generosity of this community. When we look at the amount of supplies that came in on this drive to take care of our students, it is almost shocking. As educators, we are grateful to work in a community where education of children is so highly valued."

Donations received last week were delivered Monday to the school district office, where organizers put together 12 boxes of supplies. Those supplies were distributed to needy students from 12 elementary and middle schools as well as a local neighborhood.

"Thank you for helping us get off to a good start to our school year," Kelly Gainey, a guidance counselor at Oakdale Elementary School, wrote in an e-mail Friday. "We truly appreciate your efforts and donations. It is wonderful to know that our community cares for our students."

On Friday, Herald employees delivered the truck's cargo to the district office. District officials expect to use those supplies to fill a waiting list for elementary, middle, elementary and high school students.

Across town a relieved Yvonne Howze smiled: Finally, her children had their supplies. As a Herald employee attempted to drive from Howze's house, a small face appeared.

"My mom said to tell you, 'Thank you,'" the elementary school-age child said with a smile.

Thank you, Herald readers.