Santa Maria Sun / School Scene

Altrusa donates school supplies to local elementary schools

BY AMY ASMAN

Just in time for the new school year, Altrusa International of the Golden Valley has donated thousands of dollars worth of school supplies, including backpacks, paper, and more, to 15 local elementary schoolsOn Aug. 13—the day before school was set to start in the Santa Maria-Bonita School District—club members dropped off the supplies at all of the district’s elementary schools and to Mary Buren Elementary School in Guadalupe.

Back to school: Ontiveros Elementary School Principal Margaret Ontiveros (left) accepted a donation of backpacks and other school supplies on Aug. 13 from Bruno and Jackie Brunello, representing the members of Altrusa International of the Golden Valley. PHOTO BY AMY ASMAN

“Usually we give all the money raised from the Magical Christmas Tree event to nonprofits. This year, our members decided they wanted to give to the schools because the schools are in such need,” Altrusa member Jackie Brunello said.

The club gifted $11,500 in school supplies and also set aside $9,500 in grant money for teachers interested in applying for financial assistance. The money can be used to pay for field trips and other classroom projects.

“I heard that we were receiving goodies but I was surprised by the amount and the generosity of the Altrusa club,” Ontiveros Elementary School Principal Margaret Ontiveros said.

She said one Ontiveros instructor, fifth grade teacher Myra Perez, has already been approved for a grant, and Ontiveros hopes more will apply.

Altrusa International of the Golden Valley meets the second Thursday of the month at IHOP Restaurant, 202 Nicholson Ave., in Santa Maria.