News Release

FORT WAYNE — Eleven northern Indiana Planet Fitness locations are holding a school supply drive with all donations benefiting children in grades kindergarten through 12 at northern Indiana Boys & Girls Clubs.

The drive kicked off on Tuesday, Aug. 1, at the following locations: Elkhart, Goshen, Fort Wayne (four), LaPorte, Huntington, Michigan City, Plymouth and Warsaw. All are owned and operated by the Impact Fitness franchise group. Visit a local location and donate through Friday, Aug. 18.

Items being collected range from writing utensils and notebooks to art supplies, backpacks and more. There is no minimum donation and Planet Fitness members and nonmembers are invited to contribute. All items will be distributed by Northern Indiana Boys & Girls Club chapters staff to local children in need.

Local Planet Fitness franchise owners have had a longstanding partnership with the Boys & Girls Club, dating back more than a decade. Together with Boys & Girls Club, they are working to end bullying, spread kindness and empower a generation to contribute to a more judgment-free planet.

Due to rising cost and inflation, some estimates say parents will spend an average of $890 on back-to-school needs this season, a number that continues to increase annually, according to a recent study. Coupled with increased costs for gas and food, school supply costs can be challenging for some families.

“We know that unexpected cost increases are putting a strain on family finances,” said Adam Willaeys, chief executive officer of Impact Fitness. “Our hope is that these school supply donations will ease that strain for families in the community, so they can focus on the excitement of a new school year and focus on learning and developing.”

Those wishing to donate can show up to any of the participating locations and drop off supplies on the designated donation table inside the club. Donations will be accepted until close of business on Aug. 18.