Target hosts school shopping spree for kids in need

The Salvation Army and Target teamed up yesterday to help 12,000 K-12 students across the country gear up for school with the Target School Spree. Each child, selected by The Salvation Army, was awarded an $80 Target GiftCard to purchase back-to-school supplies. The kids were paired with a Salvation Army volunteer and sent out to select school uniform items, backpacks and all the supplies they’ll need to get started.

Education is at the heart of Target’s giving and the Target School Spree is one of many ways that Target acts locally to help kids learn and schools teach, paving a path to graduation. As part the Target School Spree, Target awarded 39 of The Salvation Army divisions nationwide a total of $960,000 worth of Target GiftCards for the shopping sprees. Nearly 500 Target stores participated in the one-day Target School Spree event in select regions across the country, including four here in the metro Indy area – 38th Street, Glendale, Nora and Southport. Each $80 Target GiftCard awarded as part of the program provided a child with the necessary supplies to go back to school in the fall, ready to learn.

The shop took place on Tuesday night, right before IPS classes would resume for the year. We asked Captain Leti Crowell of our Eagle Creek center what the shop would mean to kids and families in programs in their neighborhood. She said, “school actually starts tomorrow for our kids and a lot of them don’t have anything they need for school yet.  This gift from Target will provide them with the things they need to succeed.” 

It was clear that the kids also appreciated the gift from Target.  When third grader Tiara was asked what she thought about the shopping spree she said, “This is pretty cool.  I got everything I needed for school.  It’s been a good day.”

Thanks to all the folks at Target nationally and right here in Indy. They provided a fun environment with snacks and even games for the kids waiting their turn to shop. We especially appreciated the enthusiasm of their associates as they helped the kids check out at the end of the shop. Talk about “doing the MOST good”!