Annual school supply drive ‘Fill That Bus!’ runs until August 8
In 2024, Crayons2Calculators (C2C) provided school supplies to 96% of Durham Public Schools (DPS) teachers. That’s 2318 out of 2410 educators throughout the DPS school system. During that time, C2C helped DPS teachers save up to $419 per teacher, according to a 2025 C2C teacher survey.
Now, C2C, which joined the DPS Foundation (DPSF) in January, is working to fuel up for the 2025-26 school year with the return of “Fill That Bus!” “Fill That Bus!” is an annual community-powered school supply drive. It will run from July 7 to August 8.
“‘Fill That Bus!’ is a pivotal drive for us, as it allows us to restock our shelves for the upcoming year,” said Eunice Sanders, C2C’s program manager. “This drive also provides a way for our community and local businesses to rally around our public schools and show their support for our educators.”
There are several ways for the community and local businesses to become involved:
Host a supply drive: Interested businesses, organizations, and community members can find inspiration, planning advice and promotional tips in this instructions document.
Drop off items directly to the warehouse: The C2C Warehouse, 808 Bacon St., is open Mondays through Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Here’s a list of the most needed supplies. The public is requested to fill out this drop-off form before stopping by.
Shop the Amazon wishlist: Then ship the items directly to the warehouse.
Make a monetary gift: A donation of $25 can fill a backpack. A gift of $100 can stock an entire classroom. Any and all monetary donations are welcome.
A list of participating businesses and organizations will be published and updated on the “Fill That Bus!” website as information becomes available.
“I’m so excited when it’s our time to order from Crayons2Calculators,” said Felicia Leggett, James E Magnet Shepard Middle School teacher. “I’m able to continuously supply students with pencils, paper, folders, etc. Thank you, Crayons2Calculators, for providing us with these resources.”
For more information about “Fill that Bus!,” visit fillthatbus.org.
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