The Star-News offers audio versions of articles using Instaread. Some words may be mispronounced.
A ribbon cutting ceremony was held this week to celebrate the opening of a new “Teacher Supply Pantry in Chula Vista.
The event was held to launch the beginning of the Stock the Pantry Drive, which provides free school suppplies to South County teachers and counselors.
Organizers said the initiative brings together local businesses, community organizations, elected officials, and volunteers to help ease the financial burden many teachers face when purchasing classroom supplies with their own money.
According to the National Education Association, a labor union representing educatoirs nationwide, in 2025 teachers and educators spent between $500 and $900 of their own money to buy classroom supplies.
Also, a study by the non-profit, The Century Foundation, suggests the cost of school supplies for the average family will go up nearly 8 percent.
The supply drive will run through Aug.31.
Among the items most in need are : pencils, erasers, notebooks, folders, crayons, markers, printer paper, disinfecting, wipes, and tissues. Todonate items in person school supplies can be dropped off at 707 L. St. in Chula Vista.
For other ways to donate or more information email pa******@***il.com or call (619) 585-1878.
