School Board Receives $6,400 from United Way and Tyndall Federal Credit Union

By: Shelia Mader

The Jackson County School Board received a welcome boost during last week’s board meeting when representatives from United Way of Northwest Florida presented a donation totaling $6,400 to support local students.

Gina Littleton, CEO of United Way of Northwest Florida, attended the meeting to present the contribution, joking with board members about the oversized ceremonial check before handing over the one that could actually be deposited.

Littleton explained the funding comes from the organization’s annual “Stuff the Bus” campaign, which is held across the six counties served by the United Way: Bay, Calhoun, Jackson, Gulf, Washington, and Holmes. Locally, the drive takes place at the Marianna Walmart and collects school supplies for students in need.

“Most people think about crayons, pencils and paper,” Littleton said. “And we collect a lot of those. But as the teachers in the room know, students often need much more than basic supplies.”

In addition to donated school supplies, the campaign also raises monetary contributions from sponsors and community supporters. Those funds are divided among the six school districts based on student population. Jackson County’s share from the campaign totaled about $1,400.

The majority of the donation came through a partnership with Tyndall Federal Credit Union. United Way secured an additional $5,000 grant designated to help provide clothing for Jackson County students.

Combined, the efforts brought the total contribution for Jackson County schools to $6,400.

Littleton said the organizations will coordinate with school officials to determine how the clothing assistance funds will best serve local students.

School board members expressed appreciation for the continued support from United Way and its partners, noting that programs like “Stuff the Bus” help meet needs that extend beyond the classroom.