SEVIER COUNTY, Tenn. — Bags of Hope TN is accepting donations for its third annual Back to School Donation Drive, collecting school supplies to help children and teens in need before the new school year begins.

The nonprofit is seeking donations through July 24 to fill “Bags of Hope” with essential school supplies. The bags will be distributed through Sevier County Food Ministries to local students.

Requested donation items include crayons, colored pencils, markers, notebooks, composition books, journals, pencil pouches, pens, pencils, highlighters, erasers, pencil sharpeners with receptacles, scissors, glue sticks, lip balm, hand sanitizer, pocket-size tissues, teen deodorant and small items such as stickers or travel-sized games.

Donations may be dropped off at CROSS Food Ministry in Seymour from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday through Friday. Those seeking additional donation locations or collection times can contact Bags of Hope TN through its Facebook page.

Supporters may also purchase supplies through the organization’s Amazon Wish List and have items shipped directly to the group for distribution.

Organizers say the annual drive helps ensure local students have the supplies they need to begin the school year prepared for success.

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