The United Way’s annual Stuff the Bus campaign to collect school supplies for area elementary school children took place at a new location this year.

    A big yellow school bus was parked in front of Raising Cane’s restaurant Thursday and served as the drop-off point for donations by area residents.     

    “The goal is two-fold every year,” said Sara Odom, VP of Resource Development and Communication for United Way. “First, just to get the community aware that this is a huge need. People don’t realize the need for school supplies and uniforms in our schools. First and foremost we need them to know this is something we want them to step in and help with.    

    “Second our goal is just to do more than we did last year. Every year we want to collect more because ultimately in all reality we don’t need to stop at the elementary schools. The middle schools and high schools need it too.”

    Her goal is double the amount of donations every year if possible. Last year, Stuff the Bus contributions totaled more than $80,000.

    This is the first year that a local business has gotten involved in the Stuff The Bus campaign at such a high level. Cane’s restaurant partnered with the United Way, which prompted the move from the traditional Dumont Plaza to the eatery on North Hills.

    “It’s our mission to be actively involved in the community,” said Hank Holcomb, manager of Cane’s. “We saw what United Way was doing with Stuff the Bus, helping to stock up kids with the things they need when they go back to school. When I go around and talk to elementary schools they mention how much of a need it is. People are coming into schools without anything to use. We obviously sell chicken fingers but we want to give back to the community. Our community supports us so we want to support the community.”

    Also in town for the event was Raising Cane’s Area Director Danny Caudle.

    “This is really great unique event,” Caudle said. “I think Hank has done a phenomenal job working with United Way. We’ve done things like this in the past but to have it on site at the restaurant is really special for us.”

    Caudle also said 15 percent of the proceeds from a customer’s order was donated to United Way during the event when a customer mentioned the Stuff the Bus campaign.      

    Those who missed the Stuff the Bus event can still make donations at United Way of East Mississippi on 2003 23rd Ave., Meridian, MS 39301. Call 601-693-2732 for more information.