Through the United Way’s “Stuff the Bus” program in Somerset County, NJ, several thousand low-income school-age children began the academic year with new backpacks, notebooks, pencils, erasers, rulers, clothing, personal hygiene products and other supplies.  Sanofi-aventis U.S. was among 86 local companies, small businesses and civic groups who contributed to families in need.

Debbie McCollough (left) and Laurie Mannon of    sanofi-aventis U.S., coordinators for the company’s    “Stuff the Bus” program, sort items donated by    employees.

“I’m thrilled with the level of interest and participation of our employees in this drive,” said Amy Dupuis, Manager, U.S. Philanthropy. “Due to their generosity, sanofi-aventis U.S. was one of the largest donors of supplies to this worthwhile cause.”

The “Stuff the Bus” program, now in its eighteenth year, collected, donated and sorted more than 40,500 new supplies and distributed them to 51 local schools and agencies.  

“Through the kindness of companies such as sanofi-aventis U.S., thousands of students received the school supplies they needed to start the year out right,” said Irene Natale, Manager, Volunteer Services, Somerset County United Way. “Everyone who contributed can feel good knowing that they’ve made a meaningful difference in the lives of many children across Somerset county.”