Special to the Opelika Observer
The BigHouse Foundation, a local not-for-profit working with foster kids in the Lee County area, is still collecting donations of money and supplies for its Back to School Bash.
Organizers have asked community members to bring items like school supplies, backpacks, new or gently used clothes for children or teens, as well as chips, cutlery and other supplies necessary for the event.
Micah Melnick, founder and executive director of the BigHouse Foundation, said there are a number of ways community members can get involved, including local kids and teens looking for a way to give back.
“It could be something as simple as cleaning out their closet and passing on their clothes and shoes that don’t fit any more,” Melnick said. “They could host a collection to gather supplies to fill one or two backpacks, or even host a lemonade stand to earn money to help donate to the cause.”
BigHouse Foundation had competed online to win a $5,000 grant to help fund the program, but fell short in the number of votes needed to progress to the finals.
According to statistics from the foundation, the average child needs $308 worth of supplies and clothes to start a new school year. With rising costs and a 27 percent reduction in the state’s DHR general fund, BigHouse hopes to be able to help step into that funding gap to make sure local foster kids have the tools they need to thrive in school this year.
Melnick said the group is also hoping to reach out to local barbers and stylists to help provide back-to-school haircuts for children in need.
Those interested in helping out with the event can contact The BigHouse Foundation at 363-2634.
You can also e-mail them at bighouse@ourbighouse.org This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .