United Way Brings Back School Supply Drive for Students of North Santa Barbara County

United Way of Northern Santa Barbara County has restarted its drive to offer school supplies to students in need. The drive, called “Cram the Van,” asks the community to help equip local students with the tools they need for a successful school year. The initiative will be underway during three weekends in July and August so that students in Santa Maria, Guadalupe, and Orcutt begin the school year with essential supplies in hand.

Highlights

• United Way of Northern Santa Barbara County’s ‘Cram the Van’ drive runs through August 9, 2025.
• Residents of North Santa Barbara County are encouraged to donate necessary stationery items such as notebooks, pens, pencils, crayons, binders, and backpacks, among other essentials.
• Supplies will be distributed through partnerships with various businesses and community centers in the Santa Maria, Orcutt, and Lompoc areas.

‘Cram the Van’ Invites Donation of All Types of Stationery

Community members can participate by dropping off new school supplies, such as notebooks, pencils, crayons, glue sticks, backpacks, and other essentials, at several designated locations throughout the region. Donation bins are available at area retailers, businesses, and community centers. Additionally, “Cram the Van” events will be held at the following Walmart locations:

• Walmart Neighborhood Market: 1330 S. Blosser Road, Santa Maria, Saturday, July 26, 2025, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
• Lompoc Walmart: 701 W. Central Avenue, Lompoc, Saturday, August 2, 2025 – Sunday, August 3, 2025 – 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
• Walmart: 2240 S. Bradley Road, Santa Maria, Saturday, August 9, 2025 – 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Once the supplies are collected, United Way collaborates with schools and youth-serving nonprofits to distribute the items to students who need them most.

In a statement to the Santa Maria Valley Chamber, Eddie Taylor of United Way at North Santa Barbara County said of the event, “We are thrilled to partner with our local Walmarts to support the students and teachers in our community. Every donation, no matter the size, will make a significant difference in a child’s educational journey. We encourage everyone to come out and help us ‘CRAM THE VAN!’”

United Way of Northern Santa Barbara County has a long-standing commitment to supporting education, financial stability, and health for local families. Through programs like “Cram the Van,” the organization continues to bring together community resources and volunteers to support children’s academic success and well-being.

For more information or to get involved, visit the united way website.