StreeHeat Launches Campaign to Collect School Supply Donations

StreeHeat-Ministries, a nonprofit organization based in Las Vegas, is requesting school supply donations to assist underserved students in Sedona, ranging from kindergarten to eighth grade.

The annual back-to-school drive will take place on Saturday, July 12, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Club Wyndham Sedona. This initiative aims to address the significant demand for educational supplies among local families.

George Vaughn, founder and president, highlighted the growing need amid current economic challenges. “We’re seeing an overwhelming number of requests regarding this year’s drive,” he stated.

StreeHeat-Ministries operates a distribution center in Sedona, supplementing its activities with a larger facility in Illinois, which distributes food bags to the homeless. Vaughn noted, “Our first Sedona drive served 120 families. Last year, that number rose to 172, and we expect around 200 this year.”

Eligibility requirements stipulate that children must be present to receive supplies, and a parent or guardian must reside in Sedona. Additionally, non-resident children attending local schools can also receive backpacks, provided they are accompanied by an adult.

Volunteers are essential for the success of the drive, especially on Friday, July 11, from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Assistance is needed for setup and filling backpacks, with snacks and beverages provided to all volunteers.

Seeking increased support, the ministry aims to secure $10,700 this year after receiving $8,000 from the city’s small grants program last year. Vaughn explained, “We stabilize our drive through leftover inventory and bulk purchasing, which helps save costs for the city and our donors.”

Backpacks and school binders are particularly needed. Donations can be dropped off at Club Wyndham until 2 p.m. on July 11 or on the day of the event.

Donation drop-offs can be made at the Wyndham Resort’s front desk, which acts as a liaison for the organization. Throughout the year, students in need can access additional supplies from the facility’s inventory.

To volunteer or for more information, interested parties can contact Vaughn at (702) 271-5155 or visit streetheaministires.org.