Back-to-School Report 2024

Helping Local Students in Need, Together

Saline Area Social Service’s annual back-to-school programs, assist families in need. Here is an overview of the impact of these programs, which are all made possible by our community’s generosity.

School Supplies & Backpacks

“Stuff the Bus” took place on Friday, August 9, 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 17, and over 100 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, Brewed Awakenings, Saline Optometry, Saline Rec Center, and Carrigan Cafe. Thank you to Hungry Howie’s for treating our staff and volunteers to pizza on the collection day!

New Shoes

On Saturday, July 27, SASS staff and volunteers hosted an in-store shoe shopping event, where over 51 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! Their dedication truly made a difference in the lives of these young learners.

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 our gratitude to our donors, volunteers, and community partners whose support has made these programs possible. We would not be here without our amazing community. Together we can continue to provide for those in need and create a positive impact in our community.

“What a great opportunity we have to support our neighbors. Together, we are making sure every child has the chance to succeed. ” – Jamail Aikens, Executive Director