Local organization equipping students for the classroom
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – Teachers on average are spending $800 to 1,200 a year on school supplies.
Many teachers pay for the needed supplies out of their own pocket.
Indianapolis Public School teacher Sabra Tolliver said, “Being a new teacher and I think for any teacher, classroom supplies are really in need, especially in inner city Indianapolis schools.”
“We don’t always have the money to get our kids those supplies and our kids most of the time don’t have the money to get them themselves.”
Broad Ripple teacher Ashley Molina agreed, “Being a first year teacher (I) don’t have a lot of money as I just got out of college.”
The non-profit organization, Teachers’ Treasures helps these Marion County teachers.
Executive Director, Margaret Sheehan said budgets are different now and that’s why it’s important to keep the shelves stocked.
“It’s now a very difficult process,” Sheehan said. “No money exchanges hands, except that they pay a $25 registration fee. They can come in once a month an fill up their carts with the things that they need.”
But Sheehan said the organization needs help from the community. “The only way we survive here is from the generosity of businesses and individuals who provide their gently used tennis balls, or they’re cleaning out their office supplies and they might have leftover hanging files or what-not.”
Sheehan said everything has value.
Tolliver and Molina are grateful for Teachers’ Treasures.
“It’s really nice having a place we can come and get stuff to make sure kids are equipped for the classroom,” Tolliver said.
“Having all these new school supplies is awesome,” said Molina. “I don’t have to spend my own money, so I’m saving so much. It’s really a blessing.”
Paper is the greatest need for Teachers’ Treasures.
Residents in the community can help make a difference in the lives of central Indiana students by collecting and donating paper for Teachers’ Treasures at any Financial Center First Credit Union location between now and August 7th.
Hoosiers can also drop off items this Saturday, August 8 at Teachers’ Treasures, located at 1800 East 10th Street in Indianapolis.
24-Hour News 8 is also offering an extra incentive for businesses to participate.
Businesses that register before noon on August 7 could win a $10,000 advertising schedule on 24-Hour News 8.
Click here to find out how.