LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — Back-to-school shopping for school supplies, clothes, and other essentials are in full swing as students prepare to kick off the new school year in the Natural State.
Entergy Arkansas will donate nearly $20,000 in charitable grants to nonprofits and school organizations this year. These funds will be used for local school supply and shoe drives, along with free haircuts for students.
Additionally, employee volunteers will assist with drop-offs and pickups at campuses for the first two weeks.
“A new semester brings a lot of excitement and opportunity for students, but sometimes hardships, too,” said Brandi Hinkle with Entergy Arkansas Corporate Social Responsibility. “Helping to provide resources like school supplies, shoes or haircuts to those in need can alleviate some of the stress that families face in setting up their kids for success. Education plays a critical role in ensuring all individuals realize their full potential, build a future, and contribute to society, which is why our charitable foundation focuses a large portion of resources on education and workforce development initiatives.”
Entergy Arkansas partnered with Hope Connectionz for the second year in a row to provide free haircuts at Skillz Barbershop in Little Rock and JMyles Barbershop and Salon in Searcy.
Recently, they've provided students with backpacks, meals, and information on the Kids to College powered by Entergy child savings plan, a no-cost savings account that allows families to put money aside for post-secondary education.
Here are some upcoming supply events sponsored in part by Entergy Arkansas donations and volunteers:
- August 7 – Douglas Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, 969 Smackover Hwy, El Dorado from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- August 9 – Arkansas County Enrichment Center, 702 E. Michigan St, Stuttgart from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
- August 11 – Second Baptist Church, 1709 John Barrow Rd, Little Rock at 12:30 p.m.
- August 11 – Center for Healing Hearts & Spirits, 2512 State St, Little Rock from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
- August 11 – Lifeline Church, 7601 Baseline Rd, Little Rock from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
- August 15 – Elaine School District, 100 College Ave, Elaine from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- August 17 – Main Street El Dorado, Downtown El Dorado from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Parents and students should also be on the lookout for Entergy Arkansas bucket trucks, along with line workers who will be volunteering at various campuses during the first few days of school at morning drop-offs.
“A little encouragement can go a long way toward having a good day and a great start to the school year,” said Hinkle, “We want to provide smiles, supplies, and a helping hand where we can.”
School supply donations for "Stuff the Bus" can be dropped off at any Ouachita County Walmart store until August 11.
For more information, visit Entergy Arkansas online or call (501) 372-0807.
