School closings across the nation to slow the spread of COVID-19 have moved learning from the classroom to students’ homes. But the need for basic school supplies for low-income students, particularly those without access to technology or the internet, is greater than ever. Through new and existing distribution channels, the Kids In Need Foundation (KINF) is continuing to push its mission forward to provide these students with the essentials to learn at home.
PPAI has supported KINF since 2007, primarily through access to surplus promotional products donated by members following The PPAI Expo and throughout the year. Now, the organization is working with teachers and key partners to deliver pencils, pens, paper and art materials—the core tools for learning—to millions of students who need them most. From curbside pickups, to uniting with food banks, to bus drivers running their routes to hand out homework packets—delivery mechanisms are becoming creative to safely get supplies in the hands of the students who need them.
But more supplies are needed to keep up with the demand. From suppliers with excess inventory to distributors who are cleaning out their showrooms and sample closets, all promotional products donations can help students and teachers during this challenging time.
The foundation is also in its final week of a social media campaign to generate up to 1.5 million pencils through an ongoing partnership with BIC and WWE Superstar Titus O’Neil (Thaddeus Bullard). Through April 26, every post on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter and TikTok that includes #PostForPencils will earn the foundation 20 pencils for underserved students.
The Kids In Need Foundation is a recognized 501(c)(3) charity founded in 1995. Contributions to Kids In Need are tax-deductible to the greatest extent allowed by law.