School supply drive July 26-Aug. 1

Teachers dedicated to serving students in under-resourced schools often purchase much-needed supplies for children out of their own pocket. Join us in supporting these educators and students by dropping off brand-new unopened/unused school supplies or making a financial contribution – all donations benefit Minnesota students through Roseville, Minn.-based Kids In Need Foundation.

Most-needed items (new/unopened):
·        8-pack of washable markers
·        24-pack of crayons
·        Rulers

Other supplies teachers request for their students (new/unopened): Single-subject notebooks (wide-ruled preferred); packages of #2 pencils; round-tip scissors; colored pencils; pencil pouches; erasers; pencil sharpeners; folders; individual dry erase boards; hand sanitizer; facial tissue; tampons/pads; one-gallon zip-locked plastic bags.

When you drop off your donation at the State Fairgrounds, stay for a bit and enjoy the Amateur Talent Contest auditions at the Leinie Lodge Bandshell (it’s free!). Who do you think will advance from the auditions to the semifinals and perform at the Bandshell during the fair? Maybe your favorite acts will even make it to Finals night at the Grandstand! Pro tip: Bring a meal or some snacks and have a picnic while you watch the auditions. After all, folks have waited a long time to be able to once again enjoy live entertainment outdoors!

Donation Drop-Off and Talent Contest Audition Times (at the Leinie Lodge Bandshell):
·        Monday through Friday, July 26-30, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.
·        Saturday & Sunday, July 31 & Aug. 1, 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

If you’re interested in making a financial contribution, go to https://www.kinf.org/donate/ (please write “State Fair” in the Notes section).

Find more info about the Minnesota State Fair Community Gives Together program at https://www.mnstatefair.org/community-gives-together/.