PATCH Foundation Provides Local St. Louis Schools with Student Supplies

Ashland and Hickey Elementary Schools Receive Book Bags and Supplies for All Students

ST. LOUIS, Aug. 9, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- On Friday, August 9, local members of the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT) District Council 2 delivered school supplies for all of the students in local Ashland and Hickey elementary schools.  The gifts were made through the Painters and Allied Trades for Children's Hope Foundation (PATCH). 

PATCH was founded by the IUPAT over ten years ago to support programs and organizations that provide children with education, medical care and a healthier life through youth sports.  The foundation is supported through local fundraising efforts by IUPAT members throughout the United States.  It has made over $1 million in gifts since it was founded.

"Being a good union member is about far more than our lives in the workplace," said IUPAT General President and PATCH Chair Ken Rigmaiden.  "It's the duty of every single one of us to do our part to build a better community for our neighbors and our families.  We're thrilled to have this opportunity to make a difference for the proud students of Ashland and Hickey schools."

"On behalf of the students of Ashland and Hickey, the District thanks the members of IUPAT for their generosity.  Providing our students with these needed supplies will allow them to focus their efforts on learning instead of worrying about not having the proper tools to do their job," said District Spokesman Patrick Wallace.

Over 50 local IUPAT members and community volunteers assembled over 600 book bags filled with pencils, pens, crayons, notebooks, folders and the many other supplies students require for a successful school year.  The bags were delivered to the principals of each school today in preparation for the first day of school on Monday, August 12.

The International Union of Painters and Allied Trades represents men and women in the United States and Canada who work in the Finishing Trades - commercial and industrial painting, drywall finishing, glazing and glass work and floor covering installation, among other crafts.  Learn more about the IUPAT at www.IUPAT.org and follow us @GoIUPAT.  Learn more about the PATCH Foundation at www.IUPAT.org/PATCH and www.Facebook.com/PATCHfoundation.

SOURCE International Union of Painters and Allied Trades