When boxes filled with school supplies were delivered to the Troup County School System (TCSS) front offices, they were freshly decorated in coloring sheets. 

Michael Honnold, Caterpillar Manufacturing Engineer, quickly gave credit to the artists who are all family members of Caterpillar employees. He noted many of them are TCSS students. 

While standing next to a variety of supplies such as folders, book bags, tissue, pencils, and crayons, Honnold said, “Our annual Troup County school supply drive was sponsored by the ESAT Team (Employee Satisfaction Action Team) — a plant-wide group composed of employees from all support areas who look for opportunities to plan fun events that encourage teamwork and allow employees the chance to give back to the community. This year, our supply drive began on July 1st, and we collected supplies until July 31st from our office, fabrication, assembly, and warehouse areas.”

Greeting Honnold and Gary Shane was Dr. Cole Pugh, superintendent of TCSS, and other district personnel. 

“We are always excited to see the partnerships and community engagement from companies like Caterpillar,” Pugh said. “They have a long history in providing supplies for students and teachers. We thank them for their continued support of the school system.”

The Jungle Bus, a roving bookmobile, will help deliver the supplies to the community during Back to School Bashes and other events. 

After introductions and photos, Hannold continued by saying, “No incentives were offered to employees for donating supplies, which makes the large response we had this year even more special. Caterpillar appreciates the opportunity to give back to our local school community. We hope it encourages the teachers as well as students who might otherwise have to go without the items we donate. Our hope is that donations promote the higher education of future Caterpillar employees.”