A lemonade stand operated by siblings Andrew and Vanessa Lijoi is supporting students on the Treasure Coast by providing essential school supplies. Located in Port St. Lucie, this initiative aims to ease the financial burden on local families facing rising back-to-school costs.

Lemonade Stand Supporting Students on the Treasure Coast

Ten-year-old Andrew Lijoi and his sister, Vanessa Lijoi, have partnered with nonprofit Hope Warriors Inc. to collect school supplies for students in need. Their goal is to distribute at least 100 backpacks filled with essential school items.

Andrew sells homemade lemonade, which he proudly describes as “state-of-the-art,” to encourage donations. “Our goal is to reach 100 bookbags filled with school supplies,” Andrew explained. Although he keeps his lemonade recipe secret, his mother, Lisa Ionno, shared the details of their charitable exchange: “If you bring out school donations, you will get a glass of free lemonade.”

Rising Costs of School Supplies Impacting Treasure Coast Families

According to the National Retail Federation, the average family spent over $890 on back-to-school supplies—a record high and an increase of nearly $200 in just four years. This financial strain underscores the importance of community efforts like the Lijoi siblings’ lemonade stand.

Donations are being collected at Pistachio’s Ice Cream and Gelato in Port St. Lucie, a convenient location for residents to drop off supplies and contribute to the cause.

Hope Warriors Inc. Joins Forces with Local Youth

Hope Warriors Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting families dealing with serious medical challenges. Recognizing that medical hardships often coincide with financial struggles, the organization supports initiatives like Andrew and Vanessa’s lemonade stand.

“To be able to give back after going through so much, it’s really impactful,” said Alanna Ippolito of Hope Warriors Inc.

Handmade Bracelets Add Personal Touch

Vanessa Lijoi contributes to the initiative by crafting handmade bracelets, which will be available at the upcoming back-to-school giveaway event. “We will also be having bracelets at the back-to-school event,” Vanessa stated, highlighting her personal involvement in the charitable effort.

Community Participation Can Double the Impact

Initially setting a target of 100 backpacks, Andrew and Vanessa believe community support could easily double this number. Hope Warriors Inc. emphasizes that early engagement from residents can significantly amplify the positive impact on local families. Community efforts like the recent Treasure Coast Initiative to support homeless residents further highlight the region’s commitment to helping those in need.

“There’s so many kids out there that need stuff,” Lisa Ionno noted. “When I was down and out, people did for me. So now it’s time to pay it back.”

Frequently Asked Questions About Lemonade Stand Supporting Students

What is the purpose of the lemonade stand in Port St. Lucie?

The lemonade stand run by Andrew and Vanessa Lijoi helps collect school supplies for local students in need. Donations earn a free glass of lemonade.

How much do families typically spend on back-to-school supplies?

In 2024, the average family spent over $890 on back-to-school supplies. This amount has increased significantly over recent years.

Can you donate school supplies directly in Port St. Lucie?

Yes, donations can be dropped off at Pistachio’s Ice Cream and Gelato in Port St. Lucie. Supplies collected will directly benefit local students.

Are there other ways to support Hope Warriors Inc.?

Yes, Hope Warriors Inc. accepts various forms of support, including volunteering and financial donations. They focus on helping families facing medical and financial hardships.

Where are the collected school supplies distributed?

All collected school supplies are distributed to students and families throughout the Treasure Coast area, focusing on those most in need. Local organizations such as the Treasure Coast Council also play a significant role in supporting vulnerable populations in the community.

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Educational opportunities in Port St. Lucie continue to expand with new institutions such as Legacy High School now enrolling local and out-of-county students, further enriching the community’s educational landscape.

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