The United Way of Chatham-Kent is in desperate need of school supplies.
Good Neighbours Coordinator Mary Symons says demand is up this year for backpacks filled with school supplies from Operation BackPacks.
"We have had a fantastic response to requests for backpacks this year," says Symons. "We've definitely exceeded our anticipated number of 1,400. We're at 1,600 this year."
Symons says there are certain items they need more of.
"The supplies we would definitely like to request are crayons, lined paper, pen, duotangs, math sets, and scientific calculators," she says.
Cash donations are also welcome as the cost to buy and fill one backpack is around $25.
Donations can be dropped off at the United Way's office at 425 McNaughton Ave. W in Chatham by Friday afternoon.
Backpacks will be delivered to schools around Chatham-Kent on Thursday, August 31.