United Way Bruce Grey is excited to welcome Afreen Rahman as the new Coordinator of its Backpack Program and announce that registration for the 2026 Backpack Program is now open for eligible low-income families throughout Bruce and Grey counties.

Rahman recently joined the United Way Bruce Grey team and brings a passion for helping others and building strong community connections. Her enthusiasm and dedication will help ensure local students receive the school supplies they need to begin the school year with confidence.

“I was interested in this position because it gives me a chance to get out in the community and help out as much as I can,” said Rahman. “I’m looking forward to connecting with families, volunteers, schools, and community partners to make sure every child has the tools they need to succeed.”

The United Way Backpack Program has become one of the organization’s signature initiatives, helping thousands of students each year start school with dignity and confidence. Each backpack is filled with grade-appropriate school supplies, ensuring students are ready to learn from the very first day of class. “Afreen’s enthusiasm for helping people and her commitment to our community make her an excellent fit for this role,” said Francesca Dobbyn, Executive Director of United Way Bruce Grey. “We are thrilled to welcome her to our team as we prepare for another successful Backpack Program. Every backpack represents an investment in a child’s future, and we’re grateful to everyone who helps make that possible.”

Program Details:

Registration Start Date: June 22, 2026, until August 24, 2026, at 8:30 a.m.

How to Register: Call 211

Eligibility: Low-income families residing in Bruce and Grey counties

Each backpack contains grade-appropriate items such as notebooks, pens, pencils, and other essential school supplies. Our goal is to ensure that no child begins the school year without the tools they need to succeed. Until that day comes, our community will keep showing up to meet the need.

Support Needed:

Demand for the Backpack Program continues to grow each year. Last year alone, United Way Bruce Grey distributed 2,301 backpacks to local students, helping reduce financial pressures on families while giving children the opportunity to begin school feeling prepared and included.

The success of the Backpack Program depends on the generosity of local donors, volunteers, businesses, schools, and community partners. Financial donations and new school supplies are always welcome and help ensure every registered child receives a backpack filled with essential supplies.

Community members wishing to support the program can make a donation or learn more by visiting www.Backpacks4Kids.ca.

Families can register today by calling 211, and additional information about the Backpack Program can be found at www.UnitedWayOfBruceGrey.com.

United Way Bruce Grey extends its sincere thanks to everyone who continues to support local children through the Backpack Program. Together, we are helping students across Bruce and Grey counties start the school year ready to learn, grow, and succeed.