For over 10 years, SporTran Transit has hosted our
“Stuff the Bus” Community Toy Drive, stuffing an entire city bus with toys
and gifts benefitting a children’s charity in our community. For 2024, we’ve
teamed up with Healthy Blue Louisiana and Caddo Schools to collect Stuff
the Bus donations for the over 1,200 homeless students attending school in
Caddo Parish.
The public is invited to donate new, unwrapped toys and gifts now through
December 15, 2024. Businesses, churches, and community groups are also
encouraged to give. All items collected this year will be delivered to the
Caddo Parish School Board on Tuesday, December 17, at 10:30 AM, giving
the CPSB Homeless Department time to distribute the gifts before schools
close for winter break.
“In a perfect world, Christmas would be joyful for everyone. So often, that’s
not the case,” states SporTran CEO Dinero’ Washington. “It’s staggering to
find out that over 1,200 children in our community are dealing with
homelessness. Imagine trying to raise your kids and keep them in school
while worrying about where you’ll sleep tonight. Along with Healthy Blue,
SporTran is excited to work again with Caddo Parish schools and their
McKiney-Vento Homeless Assistance Program to gather toys and gifts for
these students.”
Many organizations have signed on to help Stuff the Bus, including
numerous churches, businesses, retail locations, and community partners
like “Party with a Purpose”, Sam’s Town casino, and the National Panhellenic
Council/ Shreveport Council. While organizers hope to have plenty of gifts
for the younger kids, the public is encouraged to remember middle and high
school students as well.
Where Do I Bring My New, Unwrapped Toy or Gift?
Toys may be brought
- To any of our daily “Holiday Bus” Tour Stops; a complete calendar
of locations is available at SporTran.org. - onboard any SporTran bus or vehicle
- to any SporTran facility, such as the Intermodal Terminal or Admin
office at 1115 Jack Wells Boulevard
For large donations, SporTran’s Holiday Bus will pick up from
any location in the Shreveport-Bossier area.
Wish list ideas include puzzles, gift cards, board games, footballs,
headphones, RC cars, dress-up clothes, Barbies/baby dolls, books, and
more. Toys and gifts for all ages are greatly appreciated.