The annual Best First Day backpack drive is back, aiming to help those struggling to afford back-to-school essentials.
The Thames Valley Education Foundation, United Way Elgin Middlesex, and The Salvation Army London Community and Family Services have partnered up once again for the community-wide initiative.
"In the last two years alone, requests for basic necessities like food, clothing and shelter made to the Thames Valley Education Foundation’s Caring Fund have more than doubled," Executive Director and Community and Corporate Fund Development Officer for the Foundation, Brittany Webb, said.
She added that taking back-to-school shopping out of the equation helps ease the stress for struggling families.
"We are seeing a greater need among thousands of local families than in past," Rebecca Thiessen, Integrated Missions Manager for The Salvation Army London Community and Family Services agreed.
"When a family needs to decide between paying rent for a month or buying their children new shoes or backpacks, that’s a very real struggle," she said.
Last year, over 3,000 backpacks filled with school supplies were distributed to students in the Thames Valley District School Board, London District Catholic School Board and Indigenous communities.
This year’s drive aims to pack over 3,500 backpacks for local students.
Donations will be accepted until Friday, September 1.
Information about donating supplies or cash, drop-off locations, or even volunteering can be found here.
Classic Rock 98.1 will also be doing its part to send kids to school with everything they need.
The Blackburn Media owned station will be collecting back-to-school items at:
• Real Canadian Superstore, Oxford Street East - Thursday, August 24, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.
• Real Canadian Superstore, Oakridge - Thursday, August 31, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.
• Preferred Insurance - Thursday, September 7
