Stuff the Bus is our annual back-to-school initiative that ensures students start the year with the supplies they need to learn, grow, and succeed. From pencils and notebooks to backpacks and hygiene items, this program helps remove barriers for children so they can walk into the first day of school feeling prepared and confident.
In each of the communities we serve, Stuff the Bus runs a little differently. Local needs, school partnerships, and volunteer involvement all shape how the program operates. What stays the same is our commitment to filling the gap and creating resources where they are needed most. Whether that means packing supply kits, delivering backpacks directly to schools, or partnering with community organizations, we focus on making sure no student is left behind.
Business partnerships are at the heart of this effort. Companies host collection boxes, sponsor supply drives, and rally their teams to volunteer. Their involvement not only brings in much-needed supplies but also builds community connections that help sustain the program year after year.
If your business or organization would like to partner with us by hosting a collection box for the 2026 school year, please reach out to lwolkow@uwdp.org.
2025 Business Sponsors
Thank you to the businesses that supported United Way’s Stuff the Bus in Fall 2025. Your partnership helped fill backpacks with the supplies students need to start the year ready to learn!
Alexandria Industries, Alexandria
American Solutions for Business, Glenwood
Bell Bank, Alexandria
BMO Bank, Fergus Falls
Bremer Bank, Perham
CEG, Alexandria
CM Woodworks, Alexandria
Curves, Alexandria
Douglas County Public Library, Alexandria
Douglas County Social Services
Douglas Machine, Alexandria
Ebenezer Luther Church, Alexandria
Farmers & Merchants, New York Mills
First National, Battle Lake
First Western Bank, Alexandria
Gardonville, Alexandria
Gate City Bank, Alexandria
Gate City Bank, Fergus Falls
Geneva Capital, Alexandria
Glenwood United Parish Church, Alexandria
LifeQuest, Alexandria
Magnifi Financial, Glenwood
Marthaler, Glenwood
Massman Companies, Alexandria and Villard
Meco7, Glenwood
MN National, Henning
Noonan Sport Specialists, Alexandria
Perham Health, Perham
Tastefully Simple, Alexandria
United Community, Perham
Vivie, Alexandria
YMCA, Alexandria
Otter Tail County Area Updates:
Registration for Otter Tail County Stuff the Bus participation has closed for fall 2025. Please reach out to us if you have questions: 218-736-5147
Douglas & Pope Counties Area Updates:
Registration for Douglas and Pope County Stuff the Bus participation has closed for fall 2025. Please reach out to us if you have questions: 320-834-7800
Backpack Pick Up Dates & Locations
- Alexandria United Way Office: 503 Hathorne St. Alexandria, MN 56308
- August 20th 10am-5pm
- August 21st 8am-4pm
- Glenwood Chamber & Welcome Center Back Parking Lot: 7 1st St NW Glenwood MN 56334
- August 18th 4pm-6pm
