12th Annual Backpacks for Kids distribution is a huge BLESSING
What a blessing it was for The Salvation Army Spokane, in collaboration with nomnom Convenience Stores, to recently host its 12th Annual Backpacks for Kids back on its campus with a community resource fair.
In one day alone, approximately 2,500 children, grades K-12, received FREE durable backpacks with school supplies. Per their school grade level, the students had the opportunity to choose their own new backpacks.
And, following a year when the world practically shut down due to COVID-19, local vendors were able to participate in the adjoining community resource fair, which included such topics as healthcare, home and fire safety, dentistry, low-income insurance, haircuts, and more.
Including other local community events, 4,000 new backpacks were distributed prior to the school year.
“To see the smiles on so many faces made this day enjoyable and rewarding,” said Major Ken Perine of The Salvation Army. “It has been a tough year for everyone. Many parents lost their jobs, or saw their work hours reduced because of the pandemic, which made it difficult for families to afford the necessary school items.”
One of the highlights of the day came when a grateful mother posted two photos and the following on Facebook:
“Just the other day we saw this backpack at the store, and I had to explain to my teary-eyed daughter that mom can’t afford to buy everyone nice backpacks. But we would find her a beautiful backpack at The Salvation Army back-to-school event. I can’t share with you the happy tears, as the wonderful volunteer pulled (the same backpack we saw in the store) from the pile and handed it to my little girl,” she said. “Her feet still aren’t touching the ground. So many tears, and so excited for the new school year!! Thanks, again, to everyone who makes this wonderful event possible. And, yes, all my kids found backpacks they loved, and that totally made my day as well.”
When people ask why The Salvation Army holds this annual event, this is just one example. How rewarding it is to know that a positive difference is being made young lives such as this little girl. To that, Major Perine says “Praise the Lord!.”
If you would like to help brighten a child’s life through next year’s Backpacks for Kids event, call The Salvation Army at 509-325-6810. There are various ways in which you can help.