Project Pencils delivers to Wright County families

As the new school year approaches, families across Wright County are preparing for the flurry of back-to-school shopping—but for many, the cost of basic school supplies can be a heavy burden. School supply lists often run several dozen items long and can add up to more than a family can afford. That’s where Project Pencils steps in, offering support to ensure every student has the tools they need to succeed. More than just pencils and backpacks, the initiative provides confidence and a fresh start for hundreds of local children.  

Since 2016, the home of Hollee Saville, in St. Michael, has turned into a command center of sorts. Stacks of notebooks, piles of pens and pencils, along with backpacks hanging from racks in the garage create an atmosphere of mission and purpose — to empower students and lighten the load for families in need. 

Showcasing a masterclass in organization — Hollee collects, sorts, and tracks donations received and prepares them for distribution. Backpacks filled with school supplies are hung on racks in the garage, each with a number corresponding to the family they’re heading to. As folks arrive during distribution, volunteers haul supplies back-n-forth in a swift and efficient manner. 

In 2024, 670 students received school supplies through Project Pencils. This year, “Project Pencils provided 865 students with brand-new backpacks or bags filled with all their required school supplies—thanks to the generosity of more than 400 local individuals, families, and businesses,” stated Saville.

The benefits of Project Pencils go far beyond what’s inside a backpack. Having the right supplies boosts a student’s confidence, participation, and sense of belonging. A child with a notebook and crayons that match their peers’ is likely to feel prepared and excited about learning. For parents, receiving help through the supply drive lifts a significant weight and can bring emotional comfort during financially challenging times.

How it started

A licensed family childcare provider, Hollee saw first-hand the need for educational items, and the cost that goes along with them. The idea for Project Pencils took root when she purchased supplies for her family, spending upwards of $80 at the time. “In 2016, I spent $80 bucks on my two kids. I realized that the cost of school supplies was probably difficult for many families.”

Saville then reached out to others, asking if people would be interested in joining a group to help with school supplies. “I had about 200 people join overnight. People were eager to help.”

From there, Project Pencils grew into what it is today, serving 865 students in Wright County this year.

Operations

Hollee runs the logistics of Project Pencils, logging countless hours in order to bring the supply drive together. She tracks the cost of various brand name items to identify pricing and keep costs down. “Tracking takes up a big portion of my time. Headphone brands, scientific calculators, and backpack brands. Those costs add up quickly. All those supply drives and monetary donations help us to keep costs as low as possible.”

Many hands work to bring the mission of Project Pencils to light. Her family, along with large numbers of volunteers help with delivery and coordination. Between August 11-13, more than 100 volunteers helped prepare supplies, checking each student’s backpack to ensure the contents matched their unique list. 

During a distribution event on August 19, over twenty-five volunteers helped distribute backpacks and supplies, bringing items from Hollee’s home and garage to be delivered to program participants lined up and down the street.

Over the past nine years, Saville has built a network. Project Pencils is spread by word of mouth and through many outreach efforts. 

“I send our information to every social service agency in Wright County, plus CROSS Services (Rogers), and CAER in Elk River. I send an email to every school counselor, social worker, and area superintendent in Wright County.”

With the operations of Project Pencils run solely out of Hollee’s home, space has become a concern. “The reality is that I think we will hit our max of 1,000 next year, if we clear out our third garage stall, we can hold a thousand. If we exceed the maximum, we might have to prioritize and help those who are new. We only have so much space. We have to have it at our home for security reasons. We have to have a space where people can drop off safely and I can check everything in.”

As Project Pencils continues to flourish, Hollee hopes that schools around the country host similar events. 

“I would love for someday that every school in the U.S. has a group helping kids in their school. This happens because of the love and generosity of our volunteers and donors. I’m just really thankful. It’s really cool to see how everyone comes together. When it’s about kids, everyone is excited to help.”

Mission-driven purpose

Project Pencils is a shining example of grassroots effectiveness. Starting school without basic supplies can set students back. Project Pencils ensures that financial hardship doesn’t overshadow a student’s opportunity to learn and feel excited about school. 

Through thoughtful coordination and community goodwill, the organization has helped thousands of Wright County children begin their school year with dignity, joy, and the supplies they need to thrive.

“I’m so grateful. Thanks to the love and generosity of our many volunteers and donors—we are brightening the start of the school year for these 865 students and their families and removing one more hurdle in their lives.”

To learn more about Project Pencils and to get involved visit: www.projectpencils.com.