Union Savings Bank (USB) has proudly wrapped up its 8th annual "Stock the Closet" drive, an initiative aimed at providing much-needed school supplies to students across western Connecticut. This year, thanks to the overwhelming generosity of customers, employees, community members, and donors, more than 5,000 essential items were collected—ranging from backpacks and notebooks to art supplies and classroom necessities. This adds to the more than 52,000 items donated since the program’s inception.
The USB Teachers' Closet® initiative, which started as a grassroots effort driven by passionate USB employees, has now blossomed into a bank-wide mission that impacts schools across Connecticut. It is designed to support both students and teachers alike to ensure students have the basic tools they need to succeed in the classroom. The program currently supports four elementary schools in Danbury, Norwalk, and Torrington: Morris Street Elementary School, South Street Elementary School, Brookside Elementary School, and Vogel-Wetmore Elementary School.
The "Stock the Closet" drive is more than just a one-time event; it is an integral part of the bank’s larger mission to support local education. Bank employees are heavily involved as well, donating, organizing, packing, and distributing the supplies. Through community involvement and ongoing donations, USB aims to continue its impact, with plans to expand the program to even more schools in 2025.
Recognizing the ongoing need for classroom supplies, Union Savings Bank remains dedicated to keeping the Teachers’ Closet fully stocked year-round, ensuring that students and teachers have access to vital tools such as crayons, markers, scissors, and binders. By easing the burden of purchasing these necessities, USB aims to enhance learning environments and equip students for success.
USB customers and community members are invited to help support the Teachers’ Closet year-round by donating school supplies at their nearest branch or by ordering online through the Teachers' Closet Amazon Wish List, where items are shipped directly to the bank for distribution.
"Our goal is to make sure the Teachers’ Closet is always well-stocked so that no child goes without the supplies they need to succeed in school," added Michele Bonvicini, Executive Director, USB Foundation. "Whether through in-person donations or online orders, every contribution makes a meaningful difference."
For more information on how you can contribute to Union Savings Bank's Teachers’ Closet initiative, including how to donate or purchase from the Amazon Wish List, please visit Teachers’ Closet.