More than 1,800 Chatham-Kent students returned to school this week with new backpacks loaded with classroom supplies, thanks to community support for Operation Backpacks.
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“We are thrilled to share the incredible success of our Operation Backpacks initiative,” said Geri Hughson of FreeHelpCK, the charitable organization that organizes the effort, in a release
“This year, we prepared and distributed a total of 1,804 backpacks to youths across Chatham Kent, ensuring that our young community members have the tools they need for a successful school year,” she added.
FreeHelpCK provided a breakdown of the communities where backpacks were distributed, including:
- 924 in Chatham;
- 321 in Wallaceburg;
- 302 in Ridgetown;
- and 257 in the Tilbury area.
Kids in Bothwell, Wheatley, Merlin, Charing Cross and Blenheim also received backpacks, Hughson said.
Local schools also each received six backpacks, filled with supplies such as pens, pencils and paper, to support students in need.
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Several families also were able to pick up backpacks from a FreeHelpCK depot set up in the Downtown Chatham Centre.
Numerous businesses, organizations and local residents stepped forward to support Operation Backpack, which has been running in the municipality for six years.
“We never cease to be amazed at the support Operation Backpack receives from the community,” said FreeHelpCK member Tim Haskell.
He added it was great to see how Chatham-Kent supports children in the community.
“Thank you to everyone who contributed to this initiative,” Hughson said.
“Together, we are making a difference in the lives of our youth and fostering a brighter future for our community,” she added.
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