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WHEREAS, in 2009, Storehouse for Teachers was developed from the Pittsburgh Community Storehouse and its Director Justin Brown who saw a need to focus on local students by providing a resource center where school and classroom supplies can be distributed at no cost to the teachers; and,
WHEREAS, in Pennsylvania, only 1% of public dollars spent on education goes toward school supplies and on average, teachers spend $1200 of their own money annually on classroom materials of which only $250 can be deducted for tax purposes; and,
WHEREAS, Storehouse for Teachers seeks to lessen the burden on teachers whose students are economically disadvantaged by providing basic classroom supplies to ensure that all children are given the essentials to be equipped to learn; and,
WHEREAS, Storehouse for Teachers relies on the work of dedicated community volunteers who help in areas such as check-out clerks, product baggers, and restock shelves to name a few and on generous donors; and,
WHEREAS, Storehouse for Teachers plans to open Pennsylvania's first "free store" to provide a resource center for teachers to obtain necessary supplies at no cost and within 5 years, Schoolhouse for Teachers plans to serve 210 schools within the six county area with the potential to impact nearly 48,000 students per year; and,
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NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby commend Storehouse for Teachers and all of its committed volunteers and donors for the work they do in improving a child's education; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby declare Tuesday, August 2, 2010, to be "Storehouse for Teachers Day" in the City of Pittsburgh.