Garland ISD is continuing its commitment to students experiencing housing instability through the district's McKinney-Vento program. The Transportation Department and Student Engagement & Support Services work together to identify students in need and connect families with available resources. Through its nationwide Arrive Ready back-to-school donation initiative, EverDriven is adding to those efforts by providing hygiene kits for students and families served through the program.

"Hygiene products may seem like basic necessities, but not every family has consistent access to them," said Dr. Lisa Olsen, GISD Student Engagement Administrator. "When students have what they need, they can come to school ready to focus on learning."

EverDriven's partnership with Garland ISD began through the district's Transportation Department, but the collaboration grew when the company recognized an opportunity to help students in another way.

"The nice thing is that EverDriven recognized another need and said, 'We're going to fill this gap and provide some of the items our students need,'" Olsen said.

The donated supplies include shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, toothbrushes and lotion. The district will distribute the hygiene kits to families identified through the McKinney-Vento program, giving them another resource to meet everyday needs.

"We believe every student deserves the resources they need for an equal opportunity to succeed," said Megan Lundy, customer success manager for EverDriven.

"When we receive donations from community partners, families are incredibly grateful," Olsen said. "They know people recognize their needs and want to help."

Partnerships like this one help Garland ISD continue connecting students and families with the resources they need to succeed.