Send kids to school with dignity

BARRIE, ON, Aug. 20, 2013 /CNW/ - Anticipating the arrival of the new school year, The Salvation Army is preparing to hand out backpacks and school supplies.

"Every year, we have clients asking us if we can provide backpacks and some basic supplies in order to help their child start the new school year off right" says Tracy Calliste, Family Services Coordinator.  "Providing a new backpack can help give a child confidence, knowing that they are not carrying around a torn and tattered bag."

The Salvation Army, with the support of the community, will hand out approximately 100 backpacks with school supplies.  "It's a struggle for some parents.  By offering this opportunity, we are sending children to school with dignity - with a sense of pride and confidence.  Those feelings are important parts of learning", says Jeffrey Robertson, spokesperson for The Salvation Army.

Anyone wishing to support this program can drop off new backpacks and school supplies during office hours (Mon-Fri  9am-11:45am; 1-3:45pm), at 16 Bayfield Street.

Backpacks and supplies can be geared appropriately to specific grades from JK to Grade 12.  Items that are needed include: pens, pencils, crayons, markers, pencil cases, lunch bags, pencil crayons, erasers, dictionaries, binders, duotangs, paper, rulers, white-out, highlighters, geometry sets, calculators, scissors, etc

About The Salvation Army:
The Salvation Army is an international Christian organization that began its work in Canada in 1882 and has grown to become the largest non-governmental direct provider of social services in the country.  The Salvation Army gives hope and support to vulnerable people today and everyday in 400 communities across Canada and 115 countries around the world.  The Salvation Army offers practical assistance for children and families, often tending to the basic necessities of life, provide shelter for homeless people and rehabilitation for people who have lost control of their lives to an addiction.

SOURCE: The Salvation Army - Ontario Central Division

Tracy Calliste, Family Services Coordinator
705-728-3737

or

Jeffrey P Robertson
Area Director, Public Relations and Development
The Salvation Army, Ontario Central East Division
416-460-4441
Salvationarmy.ca