Media Release

ALACHUA COUNTY- Tools for Schools, Alachua County's reusable resource center is holding a supply drive from July 19 - August 15, 2010.

Gently used and new school supplies can be donated at the Tools for Schools center located next to Williams Elementary (1147 SE 7^th Avenue, Gainesville) on Wednesdays, from 1:30 p.m. until 5 p.m. or the Alachua County Public Works office (5620 NW 120th Lane, Gainesville) Monday - Thursday 7 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Collection bins can also be found at all Publix and Hitchcock Supermarket locations in Alachua County.

Commonly needed items include: computer, construction and notebook paper, tape, pencils, crafts supplies, pens, crayons, glue, scissors, office supplies, hand sanitizer, dry erase markers, paper towels, tissues and backpacks.

"Each year, many teachers in Alachua County spend upwards of $1,000 of their own money to provide supplies for their students. Through donations of new and gently used school supplies, Tools for Schools allows teachers to shop free for their classrooms." says Sally Palmi, Waste Alternatives Manager, "Your support of this project goes a long way to ensure that all of the students in our schools have the necessary supplies or 'tools' for a successful school year."

For more information, or to hold a drive of your own please contact the Office of Waste Alternatives at 352-374-5213.