June 11, 2025 St. Mark Launches Annual School Supply Campaign to Support Over 3,600 Local Students
Back-to-school initiative now underway across Dubuque County and East Dubuque DUBUQUE COUNTY, Iowa, and EAST DUBUQUE, Ill. – As summer begins, St. Mark Youth Enrichment has officially launched its annual school supply campaign—Apples for Students: Fill the Bag—to ensure thousands of local students walk into school this fall with the tools they need to succeed. This year, the nonprofit expects to serve over 3,600 students across 30 elementary, middle, and high schools in the Dubuque, East Dubuque, and Western Dubuque districts. That number reflects a growing need, as many families continue to face economic uncertainty due to inflation, reduced work hours, and rising household expenses. “Many of our parents are struggling, and I’ve heard firsthand just how hard this year has been,” says Allyson Avenarius, Strategic Partnerships Coordinator at St. Mark. “This project lifts a real burden—giving kids the chance to show up on the first day of school feeling ready and confident.” A Unified Community Effort The campaign is made possible through the dedication of local volunteers, donors, and businesses. Through continued partnerships with Hartig Drug Stores and other community vendors, St. Mark can fill a complete backpack with the necessary school supplies, for just $59 per student. “This isn’t just about notebooks and pencils,” Avenarius adds. “It’s about providing peace of mind to families. It’s one less thing they have to worry about.” How to Get Involved Community members, businesses, and organizations can support the effort by: Donating online: www.stmarkyouthenrichment.org Volunteering or organizing a workplace drive: www.stmarkyouthenrichment.org/apples Email alavenarius@stmarkyouthenrichment.org or call 563-582-6211 ext. 102 If your family is in need of school supplies, please reach out to your child’s school counselor in August. St. Mark is committed to providing school supplies for every student attending a local Title 1 school. # # # About Apples for Students Apples for Students: Fill the Bag is a longstanding community initiative led by St. Mark Youth Enrichment. In 2024, the campaign supplied more than 3,600 students with fully stocked school bags—helping kids start their school year with confidence and a sense of belonging. St. Mark Youth Enrichment, formerly St. Mark Community Center, has served the Dubuque region for more than 35 years. The organization provides afterschool and summer programming for kindergarten through fifth grade students, emphasizing academic growth, social-emotional development, and nurturing environments of love and safety. Learn more at www.stmarkyouthenrichment.org.
