Bartell Drugs' 18th annual School Tools donation drive adapts to pandemic needs

Amid the challenges of the pandemic, back to school is going to be different this year, with some students going back to school, and others staying home and learning online. With as many as 58,000 local students beginning the school year without basic school supplies, Bartell’s 18th annual School Tools supply drive will support families and students wherever they are.

Bartell Drugs, in partnership with local radio station STAR 101.5 and World Vision, has adapted the School Tools program to reflect the changing needs of students and families during the pandemic.

Programs, supplies and items normally provided to students at school are now supplies they need at home. To fulfill those needs, items collected during the donation drive will include gloves, masks, hand sanitizer, toiletries, personal care items, nonperishable food, and basic school essentials.

With the help of local school counselors, students and families who could benefit from this program are identified and World Vision volunteers deliver food and essentials kits to them directly.

“The generosity we see each year from our customers in support of this program is truly remarkable. This year, we will pivot and expand our scope of donated items to help families impacted by changes made to the various schooling options in our region.” said Ken Mahoney, senior vice president of operations for Bartell Drugs.

Throughout August, Bartell Drugs welcomes donations of school supplies and hygiene products to support students in King, Pierce and Snohomish counties. There are three ways to donate: Cash donations are accepted at all neighborhood Bartell Drugs locations. Customers can also purchase select items marked in-store with “School Tools” tags and place them in red donation bins at the front of the stores. Monetary donations can be contributed online here.