Building Block events are our way of joining together with our neighbors throughout Butler County to give back in a way that will build a solid foundation for the future. Each Building Block event is tailored to one of the building blocks for a good life: healthy community, youth opportunity, and financial security. Between Monday, January 5, 2026 and Friday, January 30, 2026, we will be holding a Youth Opportunity Building Block Event and will be collecting new school supplies. The supplies will be donated to Butler County Educational Service Center (Project Success) and Booker T. Washington Community Center.
Join us in spreading warmth and knowledge this winter by participating in our Mid-Year School Supplies Drive! As the chill sets in, many students need our help to stay prepared and motivated for the rest of the school year. Your contributions will significantly impact our local students’ educational journey. Together, we can ensure that every child has the tools they need to succeed. Let’s come together to brighten the winter months for our students and help them thrive in their education. Your generosity can make a world of difference!
Please consider participating and see how you might be one of the building blocks toward a brighter future for many of these children throughout our county.
We are accepting the following donations:
School Supplies
• Notebooks (lined and unlined)
• Binders (1-inch and 2-inch)
• Folders (two-pocket folders in assorted colors)
• Loose-Leaf Paper (college and wide-ruled)
• Pens (black, blue, red)
• Pencils (#2 and mechanical)
• Colored Pencils
• Markers (washable and permanent)
• Highlighters
• Erasers (large and pencil top)
• Glue Sticks and Liquid Glue
• Scissors (child-safe and regular)
• Rulers (metric and imperial)
• Index Cards (3x5 and 4x6)
• Sticky Notes (assorted colors)
• Backpacks (sturdy and unisex designs)
• Pencil Cases
• Calculators (basic and scientific)
• Dry Erase Markers
• USB Drives (for school projects and assignments
Hygiene & Personal Care
• Chapstick or Lip Balm
• Hand Lotion
• Hand Sanitizer
• Toothpaste and Toothbrushes
• Soap and Shampoo
• Feminine Hygiene Products
• Tissues
• Deodorant
Extras for Cold Weather
• Reusable Hand Warmers
• Hot Chocolate Packets (for a cozy treat)
• Blankets or Throw Blankets
Tech Accessories (for virtual learning support)
• Earbuds or Headphones
• USB Flash Drives
• Phone Charging Cables and Portable Chargers
All big things start out small. Let's be the cornerstone of big change!
Drop your new school supplies off any time between January 5, 2026
and January 30, 2026, Tuesday- Thursday, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Butler County United Way
323 North Third Street
Hamilton, OH 45011
Sheila, a 44-year-old single mother of four, is no stranger to navigating adversity. Ten years ago, after going into labor early with her twin boys, she had to learn to navigate things a little differently than before. After giving birth to her sons, Sheila was rushed into brain surgery due to fluid on her brain pushing on her optic nerve.
About 7 years ago, Tonya made the brave decision to leave a domestic violence situation for the sake of her and her daughter. Leaving the situation was a courageous choice, but Tonya went a step further and left her home and community for her and her daughter’s safety.
Sherry was at the end of her rope after years of trying to combat the problem behavior of her school aged son. Her therapist recommended trying a parenting course offered through Butler County United Way’s Parent Project....
E.J. first entered the foster care system 5 years ago at 10 years old, and the uncertainty of his circumstances weighed heavily on him. Not having a stable support system and family in his life during such a formative time left him feeling vulnerable and scared.
Rachel and David, parents of four children, have been feeling the pressure of rising costs, especially when it comes to getting their kids ready for a new school year.