In a display of community support, FreeHelp CK has collected an impressive amount of backpacks for students returning to school this year.
FreeHelp CK distributed upwards of 700 bags to families during the pickup event for Operation Backpack held on August 17th.
Geri Ann Hughson, the founder of FreeHelp CK, told CK News Today that the escalating cost of living is a challenge for families, and she wants to motivate working parents and help them keep going for their children during this time.
The backpacks are filled with school supplies, personal care items, and other necessities to help support students throughout their academic journey.
Local businesses in Chatham-Kent, including Giant Tiger, Tim Hortons, Staples, and many more, donated generous supplies and backpacks.
Geri shared with CK News Today that she hopes these collected backpacks will make a difference in the lives of families, equipping their children with the resources to excel not only in their education but also in their broader life experiences.
"I aim for positivity and encourage perseverance," Geri added. "Our goal is to affect the working parent, and with everything being so high today, they may not be able to afford that, and we want them to keep going, so if we can give you a backpack and you can keep going, that's what I want to do."
To further extend the effort, the group is giving out hundreds more backpacks on Wednesday. Registration for that opened and filled up quickly Monday afternoon.
Community members are invited to participate, partake, and contribute to the initiative.
Ticket registration links can be found at www.freehelpck.ca.
