Tanning for a good cause

In an effort to collect important school supplies for children’s education at Crossroads for Youth this fall, The Tan Company of Oxford is offering discounts to those who bring in these necessary items until August 15.
Folders, spiral notebooks and pens are at the top of the list, but Nadine Martell, owner of the local business, said any other school supplies will help as well.
Crossroads for Youth is an organization that works with adolescents from diverse backgrounds.
They help teach the youth to develop confidence and self-esteem and provide intervention and education programs.
Martell has been involved with Crossroads since last Christmas. The Tan Company gathered candy and gifts for the kids? stockings. She told Karen Tuohy, public relations representative for Crossroads, that she wanted to do something else to benefit the community.
‘We have a gift of the month club where individuals in the community can get involved with the donation process,? said Tuohy.
School supplies are the gift of the month for August.
Other businesses like Crittenton Hospital and the Kiwanis Club have also donated school supplies before.
Janet McPeek, president of Crossroads for Youth, said it is estimated that 120 students will be entering their facilities in the fall and that every little bit helps.
McPeek said what has been so nice about getting new school supplies is that the students that have not been successful or attended school in the past don’t feel confident and getting brand new supplies are ‘good confidence boosters.?
?(The Tan Company) have been just amazing because they actually take care of the whole project and collect all the supplies,? she said.
Depending on the quantity customers bring in, Martell said by donating three packages of school supplies, customers will receive 10 percent off any tanning package or premium skin care purchase.
Six packages would get 20 percent off and nine packages would get 30 percent off.
One package consists of a folder, sprial notebook and a package of pens/pencils or any combination.
‘It’s a really good deal,? she said.
Martell said the community of Oxford has been supportive of them over the years and they’ve always tried to do whatever they can to give a little back.
‘We believe in the efforts of the Crossroads for Youth in Oxford and hope that this drive helps their children with their education,? she said.
Martell said it’s important to know that this drive is not just about making a profit or tanning.
‘It’s about finding a greater cause and helping other people who are in need to reach some of their goals,? she said.
To donate, drop all school supplies by The Tan Company at 112 N. Washington by August 15 to receive a discount on their services.
Business hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.to 9 p.m., Friday 9 a.m.to 8 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.