Bryan County Schools and United Way of the Coastal Empire are teaming up to collect school supplies for local families in need. They’re going about it in a unique way though, using a school bus to collect the donations.

The bus was at J.F. Gregory Park Saturday during the city of Richmond Hill’s Fourth of July celebration as students passed out fliers promoting the drive.

Isabella Martinez, a rising freshman at Richmond Hill High School and a member of the student advisory council for the State Superintendent of Schools, is helping coordinate the effort. She said she is also contacting local businesses about hosting the bus on particular days in July.

“Everyone has been very helpful and kind,” she said. “I’m thankful to be living in such a great community where people are always willing to help others in need.”

Boxes will be available during July to collect the supplies, including: The Ice Cream Stop, Food Lion, Plantation Lumber, All Things Chocolate, South State Bank, First Baptist Church, Richmond Hill United Methodist Church, Dollar General, Kroger, Plum’s Ice Cream & Sandwich Shop and all four McDonald’s in Bryan County.

The bus will also be at the Farmers Market on July 12, 19 and 26, as we as at National Night Out on Aug. 4.

Organizers are hoping to collect items for all grade levels, from crayons to composition books, in addition to pencils, paper, folders and highlighters. Calculators, hand sanitizer and gently used backpacks are also needed.