What is Red for Ed?

“Red for Ed” is a colossal, collaborative initiative between TH@T! Company, the Education Foundation of Lake County, plus a multitude of local chambers, clubs and businesses. The “Red for Ed” initiative aims to raise awareness about the critical need of our local students for the most basic items of food and school supplies.

Over 62% of the Lake County School District’s student population lives at or below poverty level. The Student Services Department reports there are 1,946 homeless students.

This year, we will offer a hybrid campaign where the community can drop off supplies at partner locations or make donations on the online store.

“It’s our goal that each student who is in need will start the new school year with the essential supplies to help them be successful, while supplementing our schools’ food pantries,”  Carman Cullen-Batt says, Executive Director of the Education Foundation.

Three of our long time supporters including Insight Credit Union, UF Health, and St. Joseph’s Court.

How Do I Get Involved? 

Become a Red for Ed Drop-off Location: Want to drive traffic to your business? Become a Red for Ed school supply drive drop-off location. We’ll provide a collection box and signage so your customers know you’re partnering with the Education Foundation. We’ll also publicize your participation throughout the campaign. You must commit to collecting or donation at least $50 worth of school supplies. Interested? Contact Amber Castellano at CastellanoA1@lake.k12.fl.us or call 352-326-1265.

Donate Time or Money: The Foundation has the ability to purchase school supplies at deeply discounted rates and accepts cash donations online or by check to the Education Foundation 2045 Pruitt Street, Leesburg, FL 34748.

How are the Supplies Distributed?

Apple Mart Stores: Studies indicate that the average teacher spends 4.2% of their salaries purchasing supplies for their classroom. In 2005 the Foundation opened Apple-Mart which is a retail store setting “where teachers shop for free” throughout the year. The stores are manned by a group of volunteers.  There are 3 locations in Lake County. The supply drive also stocks the Apple-Mart stores.