Bank Independent has launched its ninth annual School Share drive to benefit local school children through the $5 Helps Carry the Cost campaign.

School supplies and monetary donations will be accepted at all locations of Bank Independent, by PayPal and through scheduled collection events until July 15. Bank Independent works with local partner organizations across its seven-county footprint, including in Franklin County, to ensure donations are distributed to area families in need.

The 2021 School Share drive collected and distributed more than $17,100 in cash donations and an additional 10,345 school supply items.

According to the bank, over the past eight years, School Share has created a financial impact of more than $200,000 in the community.

“Our $5 Helps Carry the Cost campaign is a great reminder that a little can go a long way to make a big impact,” said Nikki Randolph, community engagement officer at Bank Independent. “Whether you can drop off school supplies, or take a moment to donate to the drive, we’ll ensure your donations make a positive difference in the community.”

As part of the campaign, Bank Independent pledges to match total customer Smart Swipe savings up $10,000 until July 15 and donate that amount to School Share partner organizations.

“The added Smart Swipe pledge allows our customers to invest in themselves while encouraging them to make a positive impact to School Share,” said Rick Wardlaw, CEO of Bank Independent.

School Share donations will go to local distributing organizations, including the Department of Human Resources in Franklin County.

“Our customers are invested in serving the community and particularly rally around causes that affect children,” Wardlaw said. “Removing obstacles to education by providing basic school supplies makes a big impact.”

School Share is part of Bank Independent’s Helping Hands program, which was established after the April 27, 2011, tornadoes. Other Share drives include Toy Share to collect toys for children during the holiday season, Shelter Share to benefit animal shelters and Food Share to collect non-perishable food items.