Back-to-School Report

Helping Local Students in Need, Together

Over the last several weeks, Saline Area Social Service hosted our annual back-to-school programs, which extend a helping hand to families in need. Here’s a look at the impact of these programs, all of which are made possible through the generosity of our community.

School Supplies & Backpacks

“Stuff the Bus” took place on Friday, August 11, and our community donated a ton of school supplies. The drive was so successful that we were able to offer backpacks and supplies to any student in need within the Saline Area Schools this year. SASS hosted a distribution event at Liberty School on Saturday, August 19, and over 110 students received backpacks and school supplies.

Our gratitude goes out to Paul Hynek, Saline Summerfest, Steadfast Chiropractic, Saline Area Schools, our dedicated volunteers, and every generous donor who contributed to “Stuff the Bus.” A special shoutout to the local businesses that served as drop-off locations throughout the community: Nu2U Again, GNC Saline, Workout1, Baker’s Nook, Saline Area Senior Center, The UPS Store of Saline, Probility of Saline, and Brewed Awakenings. And thank you to Hungry Howie’s for treating our staff and volunteers to pizza on the distribution day!

New Shoes

On Saturday, August 12, SASS staff and volunteers hosted an in-store shoe shopping event, where over 70 kids received a brand-new pair of shoes. This helps provide well-fitted, comfortable footwear that supports the physical health and overall well-being of the children we serve. In the fall, we host a similar event to provide snow pants and winter boots to combat the harsh Michigan winters. This is an important way we can help students fully engage in their studies and outdoor activities.

A huge shoutout to the amazing team at Meijer for their exceptional support! Deb Flint, Jesse Opsahl, Terry Hannah, and Les Collins went above and beyond to make this event a seamless experience for everyone involved. Their dedication truly made a difference in the lives of these young learners.

Special Supplies

The generosity of our donors also allows us to purchase headphones, graphing calculators, water bottles, and lunch boxes for kids registered with SASS.

Youth Financial Aid

SASS has ongoing programs that offer support to students beyond the classroom. The Youth Financial Aid program, for instance, ensures that children can participate in extracurricular activities such as sports and music. With fewer financial barriers to these activities, local students can explore their interests, practice teamwork, and develop essential life skills that extend far beyond the activity itself.

Mental Health Program

Our Mental Health Program connects at-risk teens with one-on-one support from professional counselors, ensuring that they have a safe space to discuss their concerns, develop coping strategies, and receive guidance on their personal journeys.

Thank You!

SASS extends profound gratitude to our donors, volunteers, and community partners whose support has made these programs possible. Your dedication is proof of the collective strength of the community in uplifting the next generation.

“Our Back-to-School events and ongoing youth programs are a testament to the heart of our community. We are not just providing resources; we are investing in the potential and future of our youth. Together, we are making sure every child has the opportunity to thrive.” – Jamail Aikens, Executive Director