HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hundreds of children picked up school supplies at the Hutchinson Mall Wednesday for the annual Give A Bunch To Hutch campaign.

Just over two weeks ago, Midwest Ford and Toyota Superstore teamed up with Eagle Communications at Walmart. Local listeners filled pickup beds with school supplies. Fastlane Express Car Wash, Hog Wild Pit BBQ, Prairie Star Health Center and J & J Drainage Products donated money to gather as many supplies possible for kids in need.

In the past, the giveback portion was held at the First Call for Help offices. This year, Hutchinson Mall Manager Laura Barb gave kids the opportunity to stay inside, out of the heat.

First Call Director Marilyn Graham talked about the advantage of having the giveback in the mall:

 

Even with the tremendous turnout, Graham says backpacks were already distributed to other areas of the county for families that could not come to the mall:

 

Nearly 600 kids were helped at the mall Wednesday. So far, this year’s supply drive has helped almost 1,700 children in Reno County.

If families in need missed today’s giveback, there is still time to get help:

 

The Boys and Girls Clubs of Hutchinson volunteered time to help with the giveback. Westar Energy and the Reno County Health Department also gave away some great items.

State Rep. Steve Becker and Senator Ed Berger were also present. They volunteered alongside members of the Hutchinson Fire Department.