Unity Shoppe is opening its annual Back-to-School Drive, June 23-July 23, to support students and families in need as they prepare for the upcoming school year.
The Back-to-School Shoppe pops up just in time for school.
“With the rising cost of living and school supplies, many parents face the stress of affording even the basics,” the organization said. “Unity Shoppe steps in to ease that burden by providing children with brand-new backpacks, school supplies, fresh clothes, and stylish shoes — everything they need to walk into the school year feeling confident, equipped, and ready to succeed.”
“It’s more than just notebooks and shoes,” said Angela Miller-Bevan, executive director of Unity Shoppe. “It’s about restoring dignity, empowering students, and helping families start the school year with hope and pride.”
Community members can participate by donating new school supplies, backpacks, clothing, and shoes at any city or county fire station in Goleta, Santa Barbara, and Carpinteria.
Donations are also accepted at Unity Shoppe’s main location: 110 W. Sola St., Santa Barbara
“We’re incredibly grateful to our local heroes — our firefighters — for supporting this important cause and helping local students start the school year strong,” Miller-Bevan said.
Additional drop box locations will be at participating local businesses, such as Arturo’s Barbershop, which is partnering with Unity Shoppe to distribute free haircut vouchers to students heading into the new school year.
Arturo’s will also be raising funds to help support the Back-to-School Program.
Businesses nterested in hosting a donation box should contact executive assistant Becky Mendoza at becky@unityshoppe.org, or call 805-979-9519.
Unity Shoppe is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides comprehensive support to individuals and families in need while promoting self-sufficiency and community involvement.
For more about the Back-to-School Drive or to get involved, contact Miller-Bevan, 805-965-4122 or email angela@unityshoppe.org.