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Two years ago, while working as a cleaner in a school in Stevenage, I noticed some pens on the floor. As I went to pick them up, a teacher remarked, “Don’t throw them away.” That simple moment made me pause—how many pens, notebooks, and essential school supplies get discarded every day, while students struggle to afford the tools they need?
That thought stuck with me, and I realized something powerful: with a little effort, unused stationery could be repurposed to support students who need it most. And so, Katie’s Pen Bank was born—an initiative dedicated to collecting and distributing pens, notebooks, and other school supplies to students and schools in need.
Over 12,000 Pens & Counting!
Since starting this initiative, I’ve been overwhelmed by the generosity of individuals and businesses who have stepped up to help. Thanks to incredible support, Katie’s Pen Bank has collected:
✅ Over 12,000 pens
✅ Several thousand notebooks
✅ A wide range of other stationery supplies
One standout supporter has been Totally Branded, a company in Norfolk that has gone above and beyond to contribute to this project. Their help shows how businesses can make a real difference by repurposing surplus stationery instead of letting it go to waste.
You Can Do the Same!
If you want to make an impact, setting up your own stationery donation drive is easier than you think.
Here’s how you can start a stationery bank in your own community:
📍 Arrange Drop-Off Points – Schools, libraries, and local businesses can serve as collection hubs.
📢 Contact Local Businesses – Many companies have excess stationery they’d be happy to donate.
🖊️ Spread the Word – Use social media posts, posters, and community networks to encourage donations.
💙 Get Schools & Community Centres Involved – They can help distribute donations to students who need them most.
Let’s Work Together!
I believe that every student deserves the tools they need to succeed, and it only takes small actions to make a big difference. Want advice on setting up your own stationery donation project? I’d love to help! Email me at [email protected], and let’s work together to ensure no student has to go without the supplies they need to learn.
Article provided by Katie Wilson
