Operation Backpack is now underway at the Hockomock Area YMCA and seeks the support of local businesses and individuals. Committed to building healthy, confident, connected and secure children and strengthening the community, the YMCA has a hefty goal of 3,000 fully stocked backpacks delivered before the school year begins this fall.
“Convening donors and volunteers to support area families in need reflects our Y’s commitment to serve and strengthen our communities together,” said Jim Downs, CEO of the Hockomock Area YMCA. “Having access to backpacks and supplies is an integral part of a student’s success. As many families continue to face financial hardships due to the pandemic and the cost of living, we are working to make sure that kids have the supplies they need to start the upcoming school year off right.”
New supplies and backpacks are requested now through Aug. 14. The Backpack Drive is a collaborative effort made possible by the YMCA staff, program participants, partners and neighbors to provide kids the confidence that comes when boys and girls are able to go to school prepared.
Donation bins are located at all Hockomock Area YMCA facilities—Invensys Foxboro Branch, 67 Mechanic St., Foxborough; Bernon Family Branch, 45 Forge Hill Road, Franklin; Mansfield Arts and Education Center, 40 Balcom Street, Mansfield; and North Attleborough Branch, 300 Elmwood St., North Attleborough.
“Fulfilling our mission is only possible because of the dedication of staff, volunteers, donors and partners who support our cause of enhancing lives and enriching communities,” said Eric Kevorkian, chair of the Hockomock Y’s Board of Directors. “Your support with this Backpack Drive will help children and neighbors in need in our 15 town service area.”
Community members who would like to sponsor the Backpack Drive are asked to contact Katie Moore at 508-643-5265 or katiem@hockymca.org. Sponsorship levels range from $500–which will provide 10 backpacks to students in need–through Presenting Sponsor at $25,000, which is a giving level ensuring that 500 children will receive needed supplies. Be sure to inquire about all sponsorship levels by contacting the Y today.
In addition to monetary donations, the Y is requesting the following supplies: backpacks for all ages including pre-k, elementary, middle school and high school, pencils and colored pencils, highlighters, washable markers, rulers, crayons, glue sticks, spiral notebooks and scissors. A donation of $50 will cover the cost of a single fully stocked backpack. All the details to support this initiative are available at: www.hockymca.org/backpack-drive.
If a member of the family or someone you know is in need of a backpack, a request form can be found online at www.hockymca.org/backpack-drive.
