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Knapsacks for Kids

Friday, 29 August 2014 05:55

Knapsacks filled with school supplies are being given to Oxford County children. Requests can still be made.

OXFORD COUNTY- Over 300 knapsacks are being given out to children in need across Oxford County. 13 years ago, Caren Bright founded the program after struggling to afford her then teenage son's school supplies for highschool. She thought about how many other children were in the same boat. Nearly 13 years later, and thousands of kids helped, Bright says she wants to make sure "no child goes without."

Supplies are donated by the community, various businesses and collected by churches across the county. Volunteers help to fill the knapsacks and distribute them over a two day period. The registration process is simple, visit the Operation Sharing office and prove financial assistance through bills, income receipts and your child or children are eligible. If you have missed the deadline, contact Operation Sharing and they may be able to fulfill your request.

Backpacks are filled with school supplies according to grades. A highschool knapsack may include calculators and more advanced supplies and elementary schools may have pencils, paper and white out. Occasionally Bright said they recieve requests for daycare and college students. 

13 years after it started, Bright's son Brandon has become a volunteer himself to give back. For some, the costs of school supplies may be groceries for a week. The program ensures children and teens have the chance to start the school year off right.

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