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"We know what they need and sometimes we just go get the things," Chandler said. "It all adds up. With the hard times, a lot of people are hurting and there are more people who need things."

BCEA, in partnership with Family Focus Family Resource and Youth Services Center, is sponsoring a school supply drive until July 30.

"I just felt like we needed to do something to help the school and community and the children at Ballard get some things they need for the school year," Chandler said. "I wanted to get our teachers more involved with a community project."

The drive comes at the right time, said Family Focus director Kelly Wray.

"We're looking at potential budget cuts this year, and I'm already starting out with less money than I had last year," Wray said. "Fifty percent of our children are free and reduced (lunch price) students. You never know year to year how many students are going to have school supplies, so you want to be prepared."

Chandler said several businesses and individuals have already made donations, but crayons, paper, glue and backpacks are still needed.

"We thought maybe we could help with school supplies and then Kelly might could help people in other ways," Chandler said.

Chandler is considering placing drop-off boxes at the Dollar General Store in La Center and the Family Dollar in Wickliffe.

The supplies will be distributed at the Bomber Back-to-School Bash at the Ballard County Middle School from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Aug. 1.