The demand for backpacks and school supplies has doubled for the Tools for Schools program.
Each year backpacks filled with school supplies for kindergarten to Grade 12 students are handed out in Red Deer and surrounding rural communities through the program which is a partnership between Outreach Centre and United Way.
Organizers say donations of both backpacks and school supplies are urgently needed to meet students’ needs.
“There is a significant gap between the number of students requiring backpacks and the amount of supplies that we have available. We are running very short on supplies. The number of applicants has greatly increased this year, and everyday that number is growing,” said outreach executive director Ian Wheeliker in a statement.
In 2021, over 900 students across central Alberta were supplied with backpacks and school supplies.
“These donations are crucial for families with limited resources who can’t afford the necessary supplies their children need for school,” said United Way Central Alberta CEO Chelsea O’Donoghue.
“When you donate to a program like Tools for School, you are helping to pave the way to success for these kids. They start the school year off on the right foot.”
Donations of backpacks and school supplies can be dropped off at The Outreach Centre or United Way.
To read more about the program, view the list of needed school supplies, or to make a monetary donation online, visit The Outreach Centre website.