Backpacks offered to kids in need

KINGSFORD -- The Salvation Army of Dickinson County, Bread of Life Assistance Center will host a Back-to-School Extravaganza on Monday.

The event, set for noon to 3 p.m. at the office at 145 Roseland St. in Kingsford, is geared to assist with school supplies for local families in need.

School-age children who attend will receive a fully stocked backpack. They will also have the opportunity to "stock up" on other school necessities such as pencils, erasers, paper, folders, glue and more.

"We have a large surplus of many of these items and hope this helps for the whole school year," Salvation Army of Dickinson County Director Tara Coss said.

The Salvation Army also will serve a lunch of hot dogs, chips and drink for participants.

"Come get some lunch and enjoy the afternoon with us," Case Manager Jennifer Witte said.

Children can sign up to win several raffle and gift baskets.

"We are working on including some activities or games for them as well," Witte said.

"We are going to make it fun for the kids," said Coss, adding everything is free of charge to needy families.

Participants that day are also welcome to browse in the "community rooms" at the Salvation Army.

The agency is unable to shop for back-to-school clothing items but offers an opportunity to look through their fully stocked clothing room.

"We have a large assortment of sizes available, as well as shoes," Coss said.

She explained that the backpack distribution isn't new, but this is the first year for turning the program into a fun event for the kids.

"Members of our advisory council wanted to get involved and give back to the community, so we decided to make a day of it," Coss said.

Attendees will be asked to sign in the day of the event. There are no income guidelines; however, the program is for those in need of help with this year's school supplies.

"As with all our programs, we need to have a record where the items are going," Coss said.

Those in need of school assistance but unable to attend Monday are asked to contact the office before the event to make other arrangements.

They also stressed that supplies need to be picked up in person, not by a second party.

Staff will be on site to answer any questions about the many services available through the Salvation Army.

"A lot of people are aware of The Salvation Army, but many don't realize the number services available like the Pathway of Hope," Witte said.

"This is another way to get them familiar with us and let them know we are here for them if they need us down the road," Coss added.

For more information about the Back-to-School Extravaganza event or about any of the Salvation Army Bread of Life Assistance Center of Dickinson County programs, call 906-779-5717.