Submitted
Backpacks For Kids is accepting donations now for 2020.
Donors can go to the First Call for Help website at https://www.firstcallelliscounty.com/school-supplies-needed for a list of supplies. If they prefer not to shop, monetary donations are also appreciated. Please write B4K or Backpacks For Kids in the memo line of the check.
Registration for a backpack with school supplies and hygiene bags are now open for Ellis County students in grades pre-K through high school.
There are three ways to register, online athttps://www.firstcallelliscounty.com/backpacks-registration-form or call First Call For Help or complete a registration page and mail it to FCFH. The registration deadline is July 24.
The Backpacks For Kids Distribution Day will be from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 6 at the Presbyterian Church for registered students only.
Laura Shoaff, project coordinator, said she anticipates the economic effects of COVID-19 will result in more families needing assistance this year.
“I definitely think we will see an increase in need this year due to parents abrupt loss of jobs or layoffs caused by COVID-19," she said. "Many parents are struggling to pay their rent and utilities. If there is no money coming in or they are waiting on severance pay, it’s difficult to stay caught up.
"Now that restrictions have been lifted, some people who were fortunate enough to report back to work are experiencing a cut in hours, which also affects them financially."
Shoaff said First Call For Help was blessed to have donors who sent monetary donations for the agency to assist more Ellis County families in need with their rent, utilities or food.
"However, now we’re seeing less donations for Backpacks For Kids, which I’m hoping will increase in the next few weeks so we’re able to purchase the supplies we need for backpacks and hygiene bags," she said.
Last year, the agency distributed 671 backpacks to Ellis County students in grades pre-K through high school.
"If you are financially strained and your child is going to need a new backpack with supplies in August," Shoaff said, "make sure you register before July 24. Kids who are registered will be guaranteed a backpack and hygiene bag as long as we have the financial means or donations to complete them all.”