Early Childhood Development & Education, News

Say “Shoo” to the Flu by Donating Cleaning Supplies for Pre-K Classrooms

Three young children at a classroom table doing a hands-on art activity with play dough. One child smiles brightly at the camera while others focus on their work.

The flu and other seasonal illnesses are surging across Alabama. Schools and childcare centers are among germs’ favorite breeding grounds. So, to help protect our children, United Way of Central Alabama’s (UWCA) Success By 6 program is hosting a “Cleaner Classrooms Supply Drive” now until March 31st.

Clean classrooms play an essential role in student health by reducing the spread of germs and illness — helping children stay well so that they can fully participate in learning. And, as we all know, fewer sick children also mean fewer sick adults spreading illness throughout the community.

Two adult volunteers assist a group of young children with a hands-on learning activity in a colorful early childhood classroom. One volunteer, wearing a red United Way T-shirt, helps a child press down on a piece of paper, while another in a white United Way shirt leans in to support another child. The children, dressed in red and pink, are engaged with art supplies, including glue, markers, and clay. The classroom walls are decorated with educational posters and a sign that reads "Kids Are Special People," creating a warm and nurturing environment for learning.

“Pre-K teachers do incredible work every day, creating safe, nurturing and healthy learning environments for our youngest learners,” said Amber Whitfield, Program Director of Early Learning in United Way’s Community Initiatives Department. “Yet many teachers often spend their own money to keep their classrooms sanitized and ready for learning, especially during peak cold and flu season.”

Through the Cleaner Classrooms Supply Drive, Success By 6 is collecting essential cleaning and hygiene products to directly support Pre-K classrooms throughout Birmingham City Schools. Donations of items such as disinfectant wipes, hand sanitizer, paper towels, tissues, gloves and child-safe cleaning products will make a meaningful difference for both educators and students.

Clean Classrooms Start with Community Support

For those looking for a simple and convenient way to give, pre-packaged cleaning supply kits are available for purchase. These kits include the most-needed classroom items and can be purchased by clicking here.

Those who would like to support the drive by donating individual supplies can donate:

• All-purpose spray cleaner.
• Disinfectant wipes (Clorox, 75-count soft pack).
• Hand sanitizer (8-oz. size).
• Antibacterial hand soap (pump dispenser).
• Toilet tissue (Angel Soft, standard box).
• Paper towels.
• Sponges (single).
• Carpet cleaner spray.

Donations of individual supplies can be dropped off at United Way of Central Alabama’s Alice Williams Building, 3620 8th Avenue South in Birmingham. Please contact Amber Whitfield at 205-458-2167 or [email protected] for more drop-off details.

Every contribution — whether a single item or a pre-packaged kit — helps reduce the financial burden on teachers and ensures children learn in clean, safe spaces where they can thrive.