HINESVILLE, Ga. (October 8, 2020) – The adage, “It takes a village,” explains how local businesses work together to ensure that students and teachers have the materials they need to succeed for this school year. J.C. Lewis, in a partnership with Ford, provided backpacks, Mustang pencil pouches and some school supplies to the Hinesville Downtown Development Authority (HDDA).

 “We wanted to fill them with extra supplies that students need but might struggle to get when their housing is unstable,” said Michelle Ricketson, HDDA executive director. Target was a tremendous help for this project, but several downtown businesses stepped in to complete the effort. Unlimited Taxes, State Farm – Melissa Carter Ray, Imprint Warehouse and VIP Office & Furniture all contributed to filling backpacks for homeless students in the Liberty County School System. 

“We are grateful to be a part of the Hinesville community, who takes care of one another,” said Julian Lewis, J.C. Lewis Ford. “We want to encourage all students and teachers for their hard work and commitment this year.” District officials said 100 students have been identified with housing insecurities. The counselors who work with these students came to accept the backpacks; and were excited to distribute them. 

“On behalf of the Liberty County School System, we are extremely thankful for the generous donation of book bags and school supplies. Our School Social Workers will make sure students who have the greatest need receive the supplies,” said Dr. Kathy Moody, Executive Director for Student Services. This came on the heels of the Downtown Supplies Teachers initiative, where resources are gathered to provide extra school supplies for local teachers. 

Many educators spend their own money to purchase supplies for students and their classroom. This is the fourth year that the HDDA and VIP have led the effort for teachers. Educators participated in a drive-thru event where they received one of the 159 bags stuffed full of school supplies. They were also entered in a drawing for office chairs, gift baskets and gift certificates for education materials. In all, approximately 30 businesses shared resources for teachers and students.