CHICO — Despite the scorching weather, Santa Claus made a visit to the Chico Mall this weekend.
The Christmas icon was available for photos as part of the Chico Mall’s annual Back to School Supply Drive.
The drive is a partnership between the mall, its retailers and local businesses to collect donated supplies for Chico and Paradise school districts.
“We have been in communication with the schools and they let us know what they need,” said Lynette Myers, Chico Mall marketing manager. “Both districts have students that really benefit from the supplies.”
This is the first year that the Paradise Unified School District will benefit from the collected supplies.
“Because of the Camp Fire and all the kids being in our community we decided to do it for both,” Myers said.
The drive ends Aug. 10.
Supplies needed include, backpacks, calculators, college ruled notebooks, highlighters, sharpies, construction paper, mechanical pencils and Expo whiteboard markers.
Items can be dropped off at any of the participating stores found on the mall website or 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday at the Chico Mall management office.
Individuals who donate can enter to win a $500 gift card to the retailer of their choice.
The winner will be drawn the final day of the drive at 3 p.m. during the Student and Wellness Fair in the mall.
