Backpack Program Responds to Increase in Back-to-School Support Requests
More than 1,600 students have requested school supply support from the United Way of Bruce Grey’s Backpack Program. Over 1,200 backpacks have been packed to date.
With just over a month remaining before the new school year, demand for the United Way of Bruce Grey’s Backpack Program has already surpassed 1,600 student requests. As of early August, 1,209 backpacks have been packed and 1,160 delivered to local families.
The program provides grade-appropriate school supplies to children and youth across Bruce and Grey counties, aiming to reduce financial strain for families ahead of the school year.
Backpacks are distributed through partnerships with community agencies including Bruce Grey Child & Family Services, which recently picked up 154 backpacks for delivery. The United Way says requests continue to arrive daily.
A program coordinator noted that some families reaching out are doing so for the first time. Eligibility is not income-tested; any family facing financial pressure can apply. Families in need can call 211 to request a backpack.
The Backpack Program is funded in part through local donations and supported by an annual “Stuff the Bus” school supply drive, scheduled for three locations later this month:
Donation Events
Owen Sound (Staples parking lot): August 14–16, 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. (Sat. 9–5). Donations also accepted in-store all month.
Hanover (Grant’s Independent Grocer): August 22, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. (Boxes available Aug. 15–25)
Port Elgin (Vanderwerf’s Independent Grocer): August 23, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. (Boxes available Aug. 15–25)
In addition to donated school supplies, the public can contribute financially through the “Sponsor a Backpack” campaign. Each donation supports the purchase of a fully stocked backpack matched to a student's grade level.
The Backpack Program has operated in the region for several years and typically serves more than 2,000 students by the start of the school year. United Way continues to collect donations and assemble backpacks as the August 31 deadline approaches.
For more information, or to request a backpack, residents can contact 211 or visit unitedwayofbrucegrey.com.