School supply costs continue to rise, and for many military and veteran families, preparing children for the upcoming school year can create significant financial stress. That's why Stand Down Madison is asking the community to come together for its Supplies for Success school supply drive.

The initiative is designed to provide backpacks and essential classroom supplies to children from military and veteran households throughout Dane County. Organizers are collecting commonly needed items such as pencils, pens, crayons, notebooks, folders, binders, markers, and other educational supplies.

According to Stand Down Madison, the average cost of school supplies now exceeds $100 per child before families even begin paying for extracurricular activities, sports, theater programs, and other school related expenses. The organization hopes the community can help reduce that burden by donating supplies before the July 13 collection deadline.

Donations can be dropped off at participating One Community Bank locations throughout Dane County, at Verona Safety's Madison location, or purchased directly through the organization's Amazon Wish List. Every contribution helps ensure local children have the tools they need to succeed in the classroom.

The collected supplies will be distributed during the Supplies for Success event on July 16 at the Dane County Fair. Veterans will receive free admission, while fairgoers can enjoy discounted admission before 3 PM. The event will also feature community resources, therapy dogs, a blood drive, free donuts from Greenbush Bakery, and opportunities to connect with organizations serving veterans and their families.

Stand Down Madison works year round to support veterans experiencing homelessness and those at risk of homelessness. Through community partnerships, the organization helps connect veterans with housing, employment, legal assistance, healthcare resources, and other critical services.

As back to school season approaches, Supplies for Success offers a simple way for the community to give back to the men and women who served our country and the families who support them every day.

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