OCALA, FL (352today.com) – Mission: Bus Brigade has kicked off across Marion County, and Marion County Animal Services (MCAS) is doing its part to help local students.

This annual donation drive benefits the Homeless & Needy Children Program within the Marion County Public Schools (MCPS) system. The goal? To fill a school bus with supplies for these kids in need.

Residents can donate new school supplies, children’s clothes, shoes, personal hygiene items, and make financial contributions. The supplies will be distributed to counseling offices at each Marion County school to help meet the needs of students.

Donations can also be brought to the Marion County Animal Services (MCAS) office which is located at 5701 SE 66th St. in

They can also be dropped off at the school bus which will be traveling around the county collecting supplies. To find out where the bus will be, call 352-671-6847.

MCAS says it recognizes the importance of support for students in need and is offering FREE pet adoptions with a donation of school supplies through the month of July.

These pets of the week are just some of the sweet adoptable animals that you can take home for FREE while helping local students. You can meet them in person during business hours for MCAS, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

TAKE ME HOME THIS WEEK – JULY 11, 2024

Nine-month-old Rylee has become a staff and volunteer favorite. She already knows several basic commands, likes to meet new people, and gets along with other nice dogs. This girl is a real gem! Courtesy: MCAS
Who has a weakness for fluffy dogs? How about senior, fluffy dogs? This handsome, eight-year-old boy was found wandering the streets and was in need of some basic care and to catch up on a few missed meals. Since then, the staff at MCAS says he’s been much happier and even gained a little weight. They’re excited to see the next chapter of Trigger’s life. Courtesy: MCAS
Brock’s life for the last six months can be easily described; sitting all day quietly in the kennel, waiting for some magic to happen. He gets to participate in playgroups and volunteer walks, but the rest of the time is spent waiting for a special person to notice him. This five-year-old boy is worth a second chance! Courtesy: MCAS

You can view more animals available for adoption on the Marion County Animal Services website and Facebook page.