Texas Community Unites to Support Over 1200 Homeless Students in Abilene

As summer winds down, the Abilene community in Texas is gearing up to make sure every student starts the school year off right, especially those who are experiencing homelessness. Abilene Independent School District (AISD) needs your help to make this happen.

Two Big Supply Drives Kick Things Off

Before the big event, two school supply drives are happening at local Walmart stores in Abilene to collect donations for the Abilene ISD Homeless Student Program:

• July 19 – South Side Walmart (4350 Southwest Dr.)
• August 2 – North Side Walmart (1650 TX-351)
• Both events run from 8 AM to 3 PM

They’re collecting all the basics, including backpacks, binders, crayons, markers, glue, paper, scissors, and anything that would help these kiddos during the school year. Volunteers are also needed! If you’d like to help, reach out to Darrin Cox at (325) 725-3682.

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The Main Event: August 9th

At the Back to School Resource Fair & Family Fun Day, families can enjoy free activities, enter to win door prizes, and connect with organizations offering services and support. Backpacks filled with supplies will be given out to each child present, while supplies last.

Homeless Kids in Abilene: Why It Matters

This isn’t a small issue; AISD in Texas currently has 1,278 homeless students. That’s 1,278 kids trying to navigate school without a stable place to sleep. The AISD Homeless Student Program operates year-round to ensure these students have access to necessities, including school supplies, hygiene products, clothing, and educational support.

The Back to School Bash is a major part of that mission, making sure these students start the year with dignity, confidence, and the tools they need to succeed.

Hear It Firsthand

Want to know why this event matters so much? I sat down with Darrin Cox, AISD’s Homeless Student Liaison, to talk about the impact this program has on local families. Listen to the interview in the player below. And, if you feel inclined to help in any way, please contact Darrin.

Big thanks to Darrin for not only coming in to talk about this, but for all the things he and his staff do for the homeless students in Abilene, Texas.