As we head into the week, I wanted to take a moment to share where we’re at with the Backpack Program and to say a big, heartfelt thank you.

This program exists because of this community. Every backpack packed, every order filled, every child prepared for back-to-school, it’s all made possible through the generosity, support, and spirit of our neighbours, donors, and partners.

Where We’re At

So far, we’ve packed a total of 873 backpacks this season. Of those, 587 have already been delivered, with another 286 packed and waiting to head out the door. That’s a huge chunk of the way there!

This week alone, backpacks went out to:

• The Women’s Centre Grey Bruce (50)
• Durham District Food Bank (126)
• YMCA Grey Bruce Settlement and Language Services (18)

We’re continuing to move through the growing list of orders with care and speed.

This is what 50 backpacks look like in a car!

The Need Keeps Growing

Right now, we’ve received 1,249 backpack requests. That number keeps climbing as word spreads and more families and organizations reach out for support.

Thanks to the incredible generosity of our donors, we’re getting closer every day, every dollar, every backpack, every bit of support is making a real difference for kids in Bruce Grey.

What’s Next

We’ll keep packing, keep delivering, and keep doing what we can to make sure every student in Bruce and Grey shows up on the first day of school feeling ready and confident.

If you know someone who still needs to register, please have them call 211.

If you’d like to make a donation, click here.

We’re all in this together. That’s what makes this program work.