HUTCHINSON, Kan. – It is one of the real feel-good stories as the school year approaches. The Hutchinson Fire Department announced today that the School Supply Drive brought in more than $72,400 worth of supplies for students in need. The total triples the $23-thousand worth of supplies collected last year.

Supplies will be distributed the week of August 12 to over twenty-four schools in Reno County that include USD 308, 309, 313, private schools, and alternative learning schools.

“We are overwhelmed by the response from our community,” Fire Chief Steve Beer said. “This is one thing that the HFD can do to give back to our community. This is much bigger than us as firefighters, this is about the future of our children and getting them off to a great start in learning,” Beer added. “The countless extra volunteer hours of off duty firefighters, their families, friends, and area teachers were key is making this come together, manning doors, and sorting supplies. HFD is proud of our program with area schools.”

HFD’s back to school program is led by the Fire Prevention and Education Division of the department. The back to school program is partnered with school teachers at each area school. Every spring, area principals are emailed a list of essential school supplies for the upcoming year. They list the supplies needed and the quantities that they need. Forms are then emailed back to HFD to start the process in motion.

Entrance doors at school supply outlet stores in Hutchinson are manned for local donations. Supplies are then sorted, boxed, and taken to the schools where these requests can be utilized by the teachers. Teachers distribute as needs occur.

The Hutchinson Fire Department would like to thank our sponsors this year. Allen Samuels Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram of Hutchinson and Kroger Accounting Department and helping make this a huge success for Hutchinson and Reno County children.