PORTLAND — Ruth’s Reusable Resources began in Ruth Libby’s basement after her oldest son’s kindergarten teacher sent a note home asking parents to save household items that could be used in school craft projects.

Now heading into its 17th school year, the “3R’s” serves schools throughout southern Maine from a store at 39 Blueberry Road in Portland and is getting ready to hold its first Ride for Ruth’s, a motorcycle charity ride to raise money and supplies.

Schools and non-profits pay membership fees that enable full-time staff to shop for free for supplies at the 3R’s during the school year. But membership fees only cover approximately half of the 3R’s’ expenses; the rest must be raised from donations of money and supplies.

Registration for the Aug. 7 Ride for Ruth’s will take place at 8:30 the morning of the ride, with kickstands up at 9:30 a.m. There is a suggested donation of $25 for the ride, or riders are encouraged to bring backpacks and supplies to donate. A barbecue, tour of the facility and giveaways will follow the ride.

For more information about Ruth’s Reusable Resources visit ruths.org. The rain date for the Ride for Ruth’s will be Aug. 14.