Organizers say the annual JJO Charities Stuff the Bus drive last weekend at the Walmart Supercenter on 5050 Troup Hwy in Tyler was a success.

“It was a record drive and benefited Whitehouse ISD students and PATH (People Attempting to Help),” said Jimmy Olson of JJO Charities. “We raised a busload of backpacks and school supplies.”

PATH, a nonprofit organization, provides assistance to families facing unexpected challenges, such as job loss, medical bills, or car repairs.

The drive also saw an outpouring of other generous donations, including box fans, Pop-Tarts for UT Health students, and large quantities of canned goods. Studio Movie Grill played a key role, offering a free movie ticket for every case of canned goods donated at the Walmart location. In addition to canned goods, other contributions included beans, rice, assorted pastas, and plenty of peanut butter and jelly.

What began in 1999 as a small favor for Toys for Tots in Houston has since grown into a nationwide initiative. Olson’s toy and food drives in various communities have been instrumental in the growth of JJO Charities.

“I’m so thankful that for 17 years now, Tyler has continued to support our charity drives and help local children in need,” Olson said. “As long as there is a need, and I’m able to do this, I’ll continue helping children. No child should ever go to bed hungry, period.”

For more information on volunteer opportunities or to learn about the upcoming Longview drive, visit jjocharities.org/tyler and jjocharities.org/longview.

If you’d like to donate items for PATH, drop-offs can be made Monday through Thursday, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 402 W. Front St. in Tyler. PATH can be reached by phone at 903-597-7284.