STUFF THE BUS 2026 - EMMET-CHARLEVOIX-ANTRIM
STUFF THE BUS 2026
Community Invited to Help Local Students Start the School Year Prepared and Confident
PETOSKEY, MI, August 7, 2026 — The Salvation Army of Petoskey (Petoskey Corps) is calling on the community to help local students start the school year with the tools they need to succeed through its annual Stuff the Bus school supply drive. As families prepare for a new school year, many are facing increased financial strain from rising costs of everyday necessities. School supplies, clothing, and other back-to-school expenses can quickly become overwhelming for households already balancing tight budgets.
Donations of new school supplies will be accepted through August 10 at The Petoskey Corps Community Center, located at 2350 Mitchell Park Drive in Petoskey, during regular business hours. Community members can also donate at collection sites inside Walmart Petoskey on August 7–8, where flyers listing needed items will be available. Those who prefer to shop online can visit SAPetoskey.org to access the school supply list and Stuff the Bus registry, allowing items to be shipped directly to The Salvation Army of Petoskey.
"For many families, school supplies are a difficult expense. Your donation helps ensure every child has the supplies they need to learn, grow, and succeed” says Major Brian Reed, Petoskey Corps Officer. “Let's Stuff the Bus and give every student a strong start. Your donation of school supplies also helps teachers, so they don’t have to purchase them from their own budget.” #beyondthekettle; #petoskeySAL; #stuffthebus
For many children, the beginning of the school year brings excitement and anticipation. For others, it can bring anxiety about arriving in the classroom without the basic materials needed to participate and succeed.
“As educators, we know that having the right supplies helps students feel prepared, included, and ready to learn from day one,” said Jenni Hand, teacher at Pellston Middle School. “When communities invest in students, they send a powerful message that every child matters. These donations help remove barriers and allow children to focus on learning rather than worrying about what they may be missing.”
Donated supplies will be distributed through The Petoskey Corps’ annual Backpack Bash in August (Time/date TBA). Please check the event listings on our website: SApetoskey.org or check our Facebook page during the first week of August for details. Additional supplies will be provided to schools throughout Emmet, Charlevoix, and Antrim counties, helping educators meet student needs throughout the school year in a timely and confidential manner.
About The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army of Petoskey, founded in 1901, is celebrating its 125th year of service. The Petoskey Corps provides many year-round programs and services such as food, showers, rent, utility, children’s and senior programs and more to struggling neighbors in Emmet, Charlevoix and Antrim Counties. To support the Petoskey Corps, please visit SApetoskey.org, mail or deliver a contribution to The Salvation Army Community Center or volunteer. You can also shop or donate gently used items at The Salvation Army Thrift Store: 1615 Clarion Avenue. Thrift Store proceeds support local programs and services.
The Salvation Army is an international movement and part of the Universal Christian Church. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and meet human needs in His name without discrimination. For more information, visit www.SAPetoskey.org or call (231) 347-3531.
Please click here for details, the school supply shopping list and Walmart's online registry that ships ordered school supplies directly to the Petoskey Corps Community Center.