Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

Cable Company Seeking School Supplies

Now through September 1 Cox Communications in Gurdon is gathering school supplies for area school children, for whom the expense can prove a financial hardship. According to Cox system manager Mark Badgwell, the program is essential as families prepare for back to school.

Badgwell said the company has targeted a list of requested donations that will most help school children. These include one and three-subject spiral notebooks; loose leaf paper; two packages of pencils; two packages of pens; scissors; white school glue; and more.

Other needs are pocket folders, facial tissue, paper towels and 24-count crayons.

"Those wanting help families who are having a difficult time providing these items for their children should contact our office from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday," said Badgwell. He said those unable to bring donations to the cable office, located at 2505 Pine Street in Arkadelphia, should call the office at 800-636-7611. "We will come out and pick up supplies in situations where people don't have the time to bring it into our office."

Badgwell said the cable company's participation in the school supply drive stems from a commitment to participation in causes that will benefit area residents. "We feel we have the opportunity to spread the word about Project SOS over our cable channels, and that many of our fine customers will feel moved to participate," said Badgwell. "Our objective here is to make certain area schools receive enough donations over the next few weeks so that every child who needs school supplies is properly equipped."

Cox Communications is also offering a special incentive for those who wish to contribute to the school supplies drive. New and current cable subscribers will receive discounts on installation and monthly charges for new services with their donation of 10 or more requested school supplies.