Campaign designed to get underwear for elementary students
The Warren County Public Library is having a campaign to ensure that students in Warren County Public Schools and the Bowling Green Independent School District Family Resource Centers have enough underwear.
In “Drop Your Drawers,” people can drop off packages of new underwear for boys and girls sizes 4-16 at any library branch circulation desk from Tuesday to Dec. 29.
“We’re always looking for ways to be helpful. One of the things they always need are T-shirts, socks and underwear,” library Director Lisa Rice said. “We’ve helped with Stuff the Bus and food drives. This is something we’ve never tried. We hope to get them in early enough to get some to the schools before the holidays begin and then a good supply at the holidays.”
There are 53 libraries in Kentucky participating in the campaign, Rice said.
“One library in northern Kentucky invited us to do ‘Drop Your Drawers,’ and we decided to participate,” she said.
“Captain Underpants” author and illustrator Dav Pilkey agreed to let them use his character on materials related to the campaign, Rice said.
“If anyone was appropriate for the cause, this one is,” she said.
Natcher Elementary School Family Resource Center Coordinator Karen Manley said students come to her for a variety of needs.
“A lot of time they’re personal resources,” she said. “Sometimes those can be expensive for families, especially if children are growing or if they have to leave the home unexpectedly.”
It can be expensive to buy underwear in all different sizes, Manley said.
“We do have students who have accidents during the day,” she said. “Our goal is to bring students in, get them what they need and get them back in the classroom.”
Underwear is not something everyone thinks to donate, Manley said.
“We might get things like food and school supplies, and those are helpful,” she said. “It’s nice to have those available. Having a group like the library do this is great.”
The community is supportive of family resource and youth services centers, Manley said.
“The FRYSC appreciate the kind hearts,” she said. “It’s something we’re very appreciative and very thankful for.”
— For more information about “Drop Your Drawers,” call 270-781-4882 or visit warrenpl.org.
— Follow features reporter Alyssa Harvey on Twitter @bgdnfeatures or visit bgdailynews.com.
By Alyssa Harvey
Bowling Green Daily News
