Firework stand in McLoud raising funds to help students in need

POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY, Okla. (KFOR) — Firework stands are set up all across Oklahoma and are busy with people stocking up last minute.

One stand in McLoud is doing more than just selling 4th of July fun.

"We're a 501C and we are raising funds for 500 backpacks and school supplies so that we can give them away to the community in Shawnee on August 2nd," said Emily Streeter, founder of the Pottawatomie County Giving Project.

Streeter started the Pott County Giving Project just a few years ago and it's already grown immensely.

Last year, they gave out 187 backpacks and this year the goal is 500.

"Kids matter, kids need to go back to school with what they have, what they need, and have what they need to succeed," said Streeter.

All proceeds from the stand, which is located off I-40 and McLoud Rd. will go toward the back-to-school event.

"The first 500 folks will be able to have a Jersey Mike's sub for free, we'll have bounce houses, live music, back-to-school haircuts for free, hearing and vision screenings, just a whole bunch of things," said Streeter.

For many families in Pottawatomie County, Streeter says events like this one fill a critical need.

"There are a lot of families that are in need, there are a lot of families that slip through the cracks of service," said Streeter.

Streeter says it's a lot more than just handing out some school supplies.

"People have come to me in tears because we've provided them with something that they couldn't provide for themselves or their families and that's really all I need, that's better than anything else," said Streeter.

The stand will stay open until Sunday, July 6.

The back-to-school event will be held in Shawnee on August 2 at Woodland Veterans Park from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.