Riding the crest of its inaugural “Stuff the Bus” summer drive that collected school supplies, Denver Public Schools (DPS) Transportation once again stuffed a bus for the recent holiday season.
In a collaborative, district-wide effort in December, DPS staffers contributed new and gently used winter clothing items, including coats, hats, gloves, socks and underwear to benefit the nonprofit Denver Children’s Advocacy Center (DCAC).
The center received delivery of the busload of winter items on Jan. 23, and staff members began distributing hats and gloves immediately. DCAC said the clothing will help out more than 100 children.
“I am honored to work for a school district that demonstrates its support of local nonprofits like DCAC,” said Nicole Portee, executive director of transportation. “The generosity of hundreds of DPS employees this past holiday season, across multiple departments, will help students and families to stay warm throughout winter.”
DCAC works to improve the lives of children traumatized by sexual abuse and violence — as well as those who are at high risk — with prevention, education and direct services. The organization’s mission is to prevent abuse, strengthen families and restore childhood.
DPS Transportation and two of its bus terminals collaborated with the district’s Department of Technology Services and the central administration office. The district said Jesse Andrews, director of DCAC’s Assessment and Treatment Program, and Candace Wengert, DCAC volunteer coordinator, were especially instrumental in planning and supporting the effort.
Each school day, DPS transports 25,000 students, including 1,500 students with special needs.
