Unique Partnership to be Celebrated  
Grand Opening for New Location of Teacher Supply Store Set for Sept. 3rd

 

The Suffolk Education Foundation is pleased to announce a new partnership with Suffolk Christian Church. Our unique and popular Teacher Supply Store has moved this summer into donated space at the church, which is located at 216 N. Main St. in downtown Suffolk.

 

A Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony and Grand Opening is set for 1 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 3 at the new location. Later that day, the Teacher Supply Store will open for the first time this school year to all Suffolk Public Schools teachers. The retail and storeroom spaces are located in two rooms on the 3rd floor of the church

 

Since 2018, the Suffolk Education Foundation, in partnership with Suffolk Public Schools, has operated the Teacher Supply Store to support the educators who serve students throughout Suffolk each day.

 

Each year, approximately 1,200 teachers can access the store, receiving classroom supplies and educational materials that can save individual educators up to $300 annually in out-of-pocket expenses. From basic classroom necessities to instructional resources, the Teacher Supply Store helps ensure teachers can focus more on students and less on purchasing supplies with their own funds.

 

“Beyond the financial impact, the Teacher Supply Store has become a meaningful morale booster for Suffolk Public Schools teachers,” explained SEF President Patrick Belcher. “Teachers consistently express appreciation for a program that reminds them they are valued, supported, and seen by the broader community.”

 

“The new location allows us to extend our shopping hours, making it easier for elementary school teachers—whose school days often don't end until nearly 5 p.m.—to shop at a more convenient time,” added store manager and SEF board member Lesa McNamara. “We're also excited to offer ample, convenient parking, making every visit easier and more accessible. We look forward to welcoming our SPS educators to our new home and continuing to support them in the upcoming school year!”

 

The Teacher Supply Store is made possible through grants, private contributions, community supply drives, and dedicated volunteers who help organize, stock, and staff the store each week. Suffolk Public Schools also provides operational support through a dedicated store coordinator, creating a strong partnership between the school division and the community it serves.

Together, this effort represents more than school supplies. It is an investment in teachers, classrooms, and ultimately the success of Suffolk students.

 

“Suffolk Christian Church is excited that we can provide this space and help continue this amazing service for our teachers and educators,” said Pastor Donald Waltz. “Our church is home to many educators who have lovingly served or are still serving our community through the school system.” Suffolk Christian Church also shares its building with other community groups, and operates its own monthly clothing giveaways and a large food distribution with the Full Plate Project.