WeCAN collects supplies for Ready to Learn program

Western Communities Action Network (WeCAN) is gearing up for the annual Ready-to-Learn Program, which provides new backpacks and basic, grade-specific school supplies to families in need.

With your help WeCAN will make sure that every child starts the school year with the supplies he or she needs! The annual collection of new school supplies for K-12 students is now underway. Items that are always in high demand include large sturdy backpacks, wide-lined spiral notebooks, Ticonderoga sharpened #2 pencils, ruled index cards, Flair/felt tip markers, black dry erase markers, Sharpies, red pens, highlighters, erasers, wire-bound sketchbooks, earbuds and headphones, and loose-leaf paper.

Donations will be accepted at the WeCAN office, 5213 Shoreline Drive in Mound, Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. through August 15. Visit their website wecanmn.org to view lists from Amazon and Target – shop online and have items delivered directly to WeCAN. Please indicate that it is a gift so that they receive your donation receipt. Financial contributions are always welcome so that items can be purchased to fill the gaps.

Community collection boxes will also be located at Jubilee Foods, 21st Century Bank (Loretto), Coldwell Banker Realty Wayzata, Minnesota Lakes Bank, Westonka Early Learning Center (Hilltop School), Mount Calvary Church Excelsior, First Presbyterian Church (Maple Plain), Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Lyndale Lutheran Church, Our Lady of the Lake Church, St. John’s Lutheran Church, St. Martin’s Church, Minnetonka Beach City Office, River Valley Church, and Alerus Bank (Minnetonka) through August 5.

For families in need of help, school supplies will be distributed at the WeCAN office on Tuesday, Aug. 20, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Registration and appointment are required for curbside distribution.

Last year WeCAN provided over 275 children with the supplies they needed to be “Ready to Learn.” The Ready-to-Learn program would not be possible without the generosity of the community. You truly make a difference! If you have any questions, please contact WeCAN at 952-472-0742.