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LAPLACE – Louisiana Federal Credit Union launches its annual Pack the Pirogue drive this July to help students and teachers in the Tangipahoa, Ascension and River Parishes obtain much-needed school supplies for the 2023-24 school year.

According to AdoptAClassroom.org teachers typically spend an average of $860 each year to purchase supplies for their classrooms. Rising costs have intensified the issue, forcing educators to choose between spending more money, using less, or turning to the community for help. For so many teachers, Pack the Pirogue has helped to keep money in their pockets and bring joy to their classrooms.

Recipient of the 2022 drive, Ryshique Williams from East St. John High School, emphasized how transformative such help can be. “This will boost the student’s confidence,” said Williams. “They won’t have to worry about where they will get a pencil from, or where they’ll get paper.”

Michelle Miller, a fellow recipient from Ponchatoula High School, also spoke positively of the impact. “It’s wonderful to feel the love and support of the community,” said Miller. “I enjoyed seeing the students’ excitement to receive supplies.”

In 2022, Pack the Pirogue collected and donated 8,243 school supply items to 11 classrooms across southeast Louisiana. This year, the credit union hopes to increase that number by offering even more ways to contribute. From July 10 through August 21, supplies may be dropped off physically at any Louisiana FCU branch, or virtually at www.LouisianaFCU.org/pack-the-pirogue.

“It is crucial for every child to begin the school year equipped with the necessary tools for learning,” says Rhonda Hotard, president and CEO of Louisiana FCU. “Donating to Pack the Pirogue has never been easier. In just five minutes or less, you have the power to make a significant difference in a child’s life.

The donation wish lists includes basic school supplies, such as paper, pencils, scissors, glue, folders, notebooks, erasers, calculators and backpacks, as well as hygienic items like tissues and hand sanitizer.

The credit union is now accepting nominations for local classrooms to receive the supplies collected during this year’s Pack the Pirogue drive. To donate, or to nominate a classroom, visit www.LouisianaFCU.org/pack-the-pirogue.

Pack the Pirogue is Louisiana Federal Credit Union’s annual school supply drive. Each year, the organization collects new school supply donations from staff, members and the local community.

Louisiana Federal Credit Union is a full-service not-for-profit financial institution serving more than 36,000 members in Louisiana. For more information about the credit union, visit www.LouisianaFCU.org.