State Rep. Bob Merski is kicking off his annual back-to-school supply drive this Wednesday. 

Merski said donations will help alleviate the financial strain that is often associated with the beginning of a new school year. 

The following items are needed: 

  • Markers, including highlighters, color markers, dry-erase markers and permanent markers.
  • Pencils, erasers (pencil top and large pink erasers), colored pencils, pencil boxes and pens.
  • Crayons, student scissors and sticky notes.
  • Backpacks, three-ring binders, folders and lined paper.
  • Tissues and hand sanitizer (large, classroom-size bottle).
  • Personal care items such as deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrushes and hair ties.
  • Socks.

Items can be dropped off at Merski's office on Liberty Street, the Eastside YMCA, the Glenwood Park YMCA, the Greene Township Municipal Building, the Harborcreek Municipal Building, and the Summit Township Municipal Building. 

The back-to-school drive runs through August 31.