BY LISA MARIE DAHM
NORTH HAWAII SCHOOLS

With about 65 percent of Waimea Middle School students eligible for the free or reduced lunch program, many of the Waimea area families need financial help this year to prepare their children for the first day of school on July 30.

The school is asking the North Kohala community to help donate much-needed school supplies and equipment for students.

“There is no reason that not having a pencil or paper should get in the way of a child’s learning,” said Matt Horne, Waimea Middle School principal.

Donations needed include: black and white composition books, three-prong folders, number two pencils, black or blue ballpoint pens, erasers, three-ring binders (1.5 or 2” size), dry erase markers (for white boards), volleyballs, basketballs, tetherballs and water bottles.

The school also needs monetary donations to help students purchase the T-shirt uniform. Uniforms shirts are $30 for five shirts or $7 each.

“Donations for things like sports equipment and supplies for extra curricular activities get students engaged in school, which is one of the most important things for student learning,” Horne said. “When kids don’t have to worry about the little things, it gives them the confidence they need to succeed in school.”

Donations can be brought to the Waimea Middle School office between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Waimea Coffee Company and Starbucks in Waimea will also have drop boxes for supplies. For more information, or to arrange a pickup, contact Patti Cook at 937-2833 or email [email protected].

Waimea Elementary School is also accepting school supply donations during regular office hours, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information, or to get a list of needed items, call the school at 887-7636.