Backpacks for Kids is now Operation Backpack.
The United Way program, which distributes backpacks full of school supplies to kids in need in Chatham-Kent, recently underwent a name change.
"Last year we distributed 1,200," says coordinator Mary Symons. "Currently we are just under 900, but we are looking at that number as a strong possibility."
Symons says they are still accepting referrals.
"We order our supplies in, we accept donations from the public," she says. "We welcome monetary donations, we have wonderful opportunities to take hold of wholesale prices with our suppliers, purchasing several items, as opposed to just one in the store."
Donations of either school supplies or cash, will be accepted until August 21. The backpacks will be filled on August 31 and September 1, and dropped off at the schools between September 2 and 4.
Symons says they are also looking for volunteers to help pack the backpacks and distribute them. For more details, click here.