LEE COUNTY, Fla. — Two nonprofits teamed up to help Lee County teachers heading into the holiday season on Tuesday.
The United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades counties partnered with the Foundation for Lee County Public Schools. They thanked teachers for their dedication and service by gifting them new furniture and mattresses. Thanks to corporate sponsors, teachers could look through hundreds of items and pick out Tempur-Pedic mattresses, tables, sofas and other pieces.
“I really appreciate everybody thinking of us and being so generous,” said Marianne Hodges, a 4th grade teacher at North Fort Myers Academy.
Within an hour of distributing a notice about the event, all furniture and mattresses had been claimed.
“Teachers do so much for our students throughout the year and we’re happy to give back to them,” said Hannah Pelle, United Way’s Chief Operating Officer.
Many of United Way’s partner agencies focus on education and youth. They also support the school resource center that provides clothing, hygiene essentials and school supplies to children in need through the School District of Lee County.