Irrigon, Oregon — It felt like Christmas morning in August for five elementary schools in Morrow County School District as Suffolk Construction, a local construction company currently building data centers in the area, delivered an extraordinarily generous donation of school supplies and resources that went far beyond the basics.
In a collaboration between Morrow County School District’s human resources director and Suffolk’s project manager, each school created a “wish list” of supplies and resources most needed by students and teachers. The response was overwhelming: four vehicles filled with everything from pencils, electric sharpeners, and paint supplies to student sit spots, headphones for testing, indoor recess games, and playground balls arrived at the district office for distribution.
“This area is close to my heart, and it’s important to work someplace with morals you can get behind,” said Misti Stefani, Suffolk’s project manager. “Reinforcing the core value of caring is at the top of our to-do list every day.”
The company ensures that its trade contractors are kept connected to opportunities for local giving, with a special focus on children, schools, food pantries, and toy drives. With local employees who know the community’s needs firsthand, the company continues its long-standing commitment to giving back to the places where they live and build.
The District’s Human Resources Director, Erin Stocker, expressed gratitude, saying, “Our district has been the beneficiary of Suffolk’s generosity for nearly two years now through school supply drives and holiday giving programs. But this year, we are simply in awe of the generosity and support that has been shown. Each of our schools will be preparing personal thank-yous, but as a district, we are deeply grateful.”
The company’s support reinforces the spirit of collaboration between business and education, reminding the community what makes this region a great place to live and work.