United Way Bruce Grey is taking registrations for their annual backpack program.
Fundraising Champion, Kristy Andre, says the program is in its 19th year and has a simple purpose.
"The goal is to make sure that no student in our communities goes without a backpack or school supplies. We're proud to say that we've been able to help everyone that has registered for the program," Andre said.
Andre says it's very simple to get a backpack for your child.
"You would pick up the phone and call 211, or you can text 211, as well. You can just say that you'd like a backpack for the upcoming school year, and you'll be put on a list. They'll reach out to you or we can reach out to you with the date and the place you can pick up your backpack, and anyone can register. There's no income inquiry, or anything like that," added Andre.
Additionally, if you want to donate to the program, that's easy, as well. This year, Andre says they hope to raise $80,000.
"You can go to Backpacks4Kids.ca. You can do it through there, or we are at Staples in Owen Sound for our Stuff a Bus event, from August 16 to the 19. Or, if you're able to stop into our office, you can make a donation here, or if you'd like to make an in-kind donation of school supplies, you can do that, as well," Andre shared.
United Way also has backpacks and supplies for all students depending on their age and grade.
"A primary backpack will have a backpack, a pencil case, pencils, erasers, a glue stick, that sort of thing. We have up to high school students, so that kind of gets a little bit more of an inventory. So there's binders, notebooks, rulers, and things like that. So it really depends on the age group," concluded Andre.
For more or to donate, visit https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/61023?v2=true.