As part of a new initiative called Operation Moving Forward, Alachua County Public Schools is donating 40 "retiring" buses to local churches, nonprofit organizations and government entities.
The district has purchased 80 new buses, and typically any surplus buses would be auctioned off to the highest bidder. Given the strain of the pandemic, however, the district will donate them to support the community instead.
“Like us, they are in the business of serving the people of Alachua County, and we want to help them do that," said Superintendent Karen Clarke.
The district will be accepting applications from churches and non-profit organizations through 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 21. The winners will be chosen in a random drawing, and the giveaway will be held Wednesday, Oct. 28.