Organizations hold schools supplies drives

COLUMBIA - Students and their parents are flocking to buy pencils, notebook paper, glue sticks, folders, rulers and more in preparation for the first day of school in Columbia on Thursday. For some students, however, these supplies cost more than they can afford. Major Kendall Mathews of the Salvation Army of Central Missouri said there is still great need for donated supplies at its drive location.

Several other organizations collect supplies to help alleviate this burden.

Drive locations in Columbia include the following:

• Salvation Army

1108 West Ash St.

442-3229

Hours: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• Staples

115 Conley Road

441-990

Hours: Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

• Voluntary Action Center

800 N. Providence Road, Suite 220

874-2273

Hours: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to noon, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.