Carr Hardware and their Customers Donate PPE to Local Schools

Family owned and operated since 1928, Carr Hardware has a long tradition of supporting the communities that surround their stores.  So when the Covid pandemic hit, it was only natural that they would step up and do what they could to help.

That's why they created the “Round-up for the Schools” campaign that in combination with the company's match was able to provide and donate over $8,500 worth of personal protective equipment to three local school districts.

Carr Hardware started the program at the end of August offering customers the option to round-up their purchases to the nearest dollar and Carr would match those dollars 100%. Carr Hardware also had change collection jars stationed at all locations for customers to donate. With the Carr Hardware match and the generosity of their customers, they purchased much needed personal protective equipment, including masks, sanitizer, and commercial disinfectant sprayers to donate to the three local school districts.

"We are so thankful to our community partners at Carr Hardware for supporting our schools," stated North Adams Superintendent, Barbara Malkas.

President of Carr Hardware, Bart Raser stated “We are a community business that believes in giving back, it’s just part of our core culture. Our kids and schools need our help more than ever and school safety is paramount. We are thrilled to be in a position to do our part and appreciative of the generosity of our customers who supported our teachers and our students.”

Three School Districts signed up to participate: North Adams Public Schools, Lee Public Schools, and Pittsfield Public Schools.

Lee Superintendent Michael Richard commented, "The Round-Up Campaign that Carr Hardware engaged in this year was amazing! The support dedicated to our community, and others in the area, is remarkable. The efforts of Carr Hardware is what distinguishes their stores from others; they truly care about the communities that they serve! Our students, staff, and families will all benefit from this extraordinary donation. Thank you!"

Pittsfield Superintendent Jason McCandless also commented, "The Pittsfield Public Schools are so grateful to our neighbors at Carr Hardware for supporting our schools in yet another way through the Round-Up Program. Carr Hardware has been there for the Pittsfield Public Schools and its students in so many ways over the decades, and we thank the Raser family and the whole Carr Hardware family for once again being there for children of Pittsfield."

For more information about Carr Hardware, please visit www.carrhardware.com.

This story is part of our ongoing ‘Local Memories, Lasting Impact’ series that highlights small, locally owned businesses and the differences they make in their communities.