Now that both Harrisonburg City and Rockingham County schools are back in session, the Salvation Army has tallied up the number of children assisted through the Tools for School Program.

In its 14th year of organized school supply distribution, 385 children came to pick up supplies to prepare for school, exceeding the goal of 350.

On August 15, 312 back packs were handed out and steady stream of parents continued to come until August 25, when the 385th bag of supplies was handed out. The last ten people that came in received bags filled with school supplies, because the Salvation Army ran out of back packs.

Tools for School collection and distribution is successful due to the help of sponsors, local individuals and businesses, and several churches. WHSV-TV 3, Wachovia and Domino's Pizza were the primary sponsors and collection points for school supplies.

Kohl's Department Store in Harrisonburg assisted with Kohl's Cares for Kids
school supply drive and a monetary gift. Office Depot offered to donate many supplies after the Salvation Army visited the store to purchase large amounts of items that were needed.

Several donations came from individuals that were also used to purchase more supplies. When it was added up, supplying each child cost about $40.

Ultimately, the Salvation Army's goal was to prepare these children for a great school year. No child wants to start school knowing they have to ask their teacher for supplies in front of their peers. This program not only supplies the material needs, but builds the self confidence and self esteem of a child. It also nurtures a positive school experience.

Since 1994 the Salvation Army has been providing local children with
school supplies. In 2002 with a partnership between TV-3 and Wachovia, the program became Tools for Schools.