During the Washington County Board of Supervisors meeting on October 22, 2024, a significant discussion emerged regarding the urgent need for building supplies in local schools. Board members highlighted that Ray Valley Elementary, Damascus Bridal, and Holston schools are currently overwhelmed with food donations, leaving them with limited storage space for additional items.

One board member reported receiving multiple pallets of food from various sources, including the sheriff's department and Feeding Southwest Virginia, which are intended for the local backpack program that supports students in need. However, the member expressed concern about the lack of storage capacity, indicating that the schools are at capacity with food supplies.

To address the surplus, the board member suggested that the sheriff's department consider redistributing some of the food to Feeding Southwest Virginia, which could then allocate it back to the backpack program or other school initiatives. This collaborative approach aims to ensure that the resources are effectively utilized and reach the students who need them most.

The meeting underscored the importance of community support and resource management in addressing the needs of local schools. As the board continues to navigate these challenges, the focus remains on ensuring that students have access to essential supplies, both food and building materials, to support their educational environment.