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A new school year is here, which means Buddy Bags is back! United Way of Howard and Tipton Counties will kick off the 2026–2027 school year on Wed., Sept. 9, and it is excited to have many returning volunteers. However, more help is needed.
United Way is looking for additional volunteers to help throughout the school year, with our greatest need currently being Thursday deliveries. The organization gladly welcomes individual volunteers, families, coworkers, or full teams.
Buddy Bags operates on the following schedule:
- Packing: Wednesdays from 12–1 p.m.
- Deliveries: Thursdays from 9–11 a.m.
- Location: 1500 N. Reed Road (the Lucas Furniture building on Ind. 931)
Wednesday packing shifts need volunteers on September 23, February 24, and March 24.
Delivery dates currently needing volunteers include: October 1 and 15; November 5; December 3; January 14; February 4 and 11; March 4; April 8; and May 6.
Deliveries typically take less than two hours. Volunteers can use their personal vehicle to deliver to one or two schools or follow behind the Buddy Bags trailer to help unload at each school, depending on the availability of a trailer driver that day.
Volunteers can sign up by clicking on the “Buddy Bags Sign Up” link at www.howardandtiptonunitedway.org. Volunteers with trucks who are willing to pull the Buddy Bags trailer are also needed on Thursday delivery days. Alternatively to volunteer, reach out to Lexi Harris at LHarris@HowardAndTiptonUnitedWay.org or by calling 765-457-4357 Ext. 1007.