GOLDSBORO, N.C. – Communities Supporting Schools (CSS) of Wayne County’s 2025 “Stuff the Bus” campaign exceeded expectations, collecting $40,000 worth of school supplies and $8,000 in monetary donations despite threatening weather conditions.
The annual back-to-school supply drive, held at the Goldsboro News Argus parking lot, nearly faced postponement due to forecasted rain showers. However, organizers proceeded with the event and were rewarded with ideal weather conditions throughout the day.
Community Partnership Drives Success
“The support from this community is always amazing,” said event organizers. CSS Associate Director Wendy Hooks led the coordination efforts alongside the CSS team, ensuring smooth operations as volunteers greeted visitors and collected donations.
The event saw strong participation from diverse community sectors, including faith organizations, local businesses, non-profit partners, and individual donors. Pastor Ryan Barbato and his wife Whitney represented The Bridge Church Goldsboro among the contributors, while CSS board member Cristy Barnes-Williams and community supporter Linda Jordan made drive-through donations.
Expanding Access Through Multiple Locations
This year marked the first time the campaign utilized satellite donation sites, with Queen City Homestore and Habitat for Humanity ReStore Goldsboro serving as alternative drop-off locations for several weeks leading up to the main event.
The initiative also created memorable moments for families, including incoming Wayne County Public Schools kindergartener Emily, who experienced her first school bus ride while accompanying her mother Kimberley to donate supplies.
Distribution and Community Impact
CSS staff collected and transported all donations to Meadow Lane Elementary School, where they will spend the coming weeks organizing and distributing supplies to all Wayne County Public Schools. The coordinated effort ensures equitable access to essential school materials across the district.
Wayne County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Marc Whichard has been a consistent supporter of CSS initiatives, recognizing the vital role these community partnerships play in student success.
Media and Organizational Support
The event received extensive coverage from local media outlets, including Goldsboro News Argus, Goldsboro Daily News, and The Buzz Around Wayne County, helping to maximize community awareness and participation.
Annual sponsor Goldsboro News Argus continued its longstanding partnership with CSS by providing the parking lot venue, demonstrating ongoing commitment to educational support in Wayne County.
About Communities Supporting Schools
Communities Supporting Schools of Wayne County, Inc. works to bridge resource gaps in local education through community partnerships and collaborative initiatives. The organization can be reached at 919-735-1432 or through their website at waynecss.org. Their mailing address is P.O. Box 11557, Goldsboro, NC 27532.
The success of the 2025 “Stuff the Bus” campaign reflects the continued dedication of Wayne County residents to supporting student achievement and educational excellence in their community.
