Ross Stores Matches Donations for Kids' Homework Program

For the 12th year running, Ross Dress for Less is turning everyday shopping trips into opportunities to help Central Oregon kids succeed in school.

From February 7 through March 1, shoppers at Ross stores in Bend and Redmond can donate at checkout to support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Bend. Every dollar goes directly to Power Hour, the club's homework help and tutoring program that gives kids the academic support they need to thrive.

The Ross Stores Foundation sweetens the deal by matching every donation up to $500,000. That means a $5 donation at checkout becomes $10 worth of tutoring materials, study space, and one-on-one help for local students.

Power Hour serves as a lifeline for kids who might not have quiet study spaces at home or parents available to help with tricky math problems. The program pairs students with caring adults who help them tackle homework, build study skills, and gain confidence in their abilities.

More than four million young people benefit from Boys & Girls Clubs programs nationwide each year. The partnership between Ross and BGCA has grown into a nationwide movement, with stores across the country raising funds for their local clubs each February.

The Ripple Effect

When a child gets help with homework today, the benefits extend far beyond tonight's assignment. Better grades lead to increased confidence, which opens doors to advanced classes, college opportunities, and career paths that might have seemed out of reach.

Gary Cribb, Senior Group Executive Vice President at Ross Stores, emphasized the long-term vision behind the fundraiser. By supporting Power Hour, the company and its customers are investing in future leaders who will shape their communities for decades to come.

The homework help program doesn't just teach kids how to solve for X or write a thesis statement. It shows them that their education matters, that adults care about their success, and that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness.

Central Oregon families can participate simply by saying yes at checkout during their regular shopping trips, turning routine errands into meaningful contributions to their neighbors' futures.