Families in need of school supplies will once again get a helping hand from the Supplies 4 Success program.
Staples Business Depot will be collecting school supplies until mid September and residents can visit Community Links to apply for a backpack starting Aug. 24.
“I think it is really important for kids to start school with enough supplies,” said Glenda Alexander, program coordinator.
“Kids who don’t have everything they need don’t have the same opportunities as kids with a full backpack. They go to school with confidence and peace of mind knowing they have everything they need and that helps them learn better.”
The Supplies 4 Success program has been operating in Airdrie for nine years and Alexander said there are more families in need every year. Last year, the program provided about 200 backpacks to Airdrie families.
“Every year we help more and more families,” said Jenna Scribner, community support worker at Community Links. “We want to make sure no children go to school without supplies.”
The program provides backpacks full of school supplies to children of less fortunate families. Airdrie and area families can qualify for backpacks filled with supplies specific to children attending Kindergarten, grades 1 to 4, grades 5 to 8 and grades 9 to 12 by visiting the Community Links north building located at 112 – 1st Avenue in Airdrie.
Alexander thanked Staples for making the Supplies 4 Success program possible.
“Staples is a major supporter and asks their clients to donate and the supplies we receive are overwhelming,” she said.
“We really appreciate what Staples has done. Residents can donate items or cash at the store while they pick up their own supplies.”
Alexander said there is no reason for parents to be ashamed of needing a little help.
“We understand times are hard and we really want to help these kids,” said Alexander.
For more information, visit Staples at 505 Main Street.
