The Waterloo Regional Police Service is once again challenging the community to take part in its fifth annual Backpack Challenge.
During July and August, the challenge encourages residents to purchase new backpacks, school supplies, lunch bags or gift cards to be donated to children and families in need.
“I’m born and raised in this community, and I’ve been here many years. The community here is so supportive,” said John Goodman, interim chief of the Waterloo Region Police Service (WRPS).
“Times are tough right now for some folks and things are expensive so any support from the community with backpacks and items for school including school supplies would be greatly appreciated.”
More than 5,000 backpacks have been collected since the challenge began, along with thousands of dollars in gift cards and school supplies. Items have been donated to youth organizations and children in Waterloo Region to ensure they have an exciting back-to-school experience.
The Backpack Challenge will run until August 23. All donations will be delivered to community organizations throughout Waterloo Region.
And at the end of August, Children and youth will also be invited to the Children’s Safety Village at Police Headquarters where they will be able to choose their own backpack.
Backpack Challenge donations can be dropped off at designated areas at Police Headquarters, located at 200 Maple Grove Road in Cambridge, or at any police division including South Division, at 176 Hespeler Road, Cambridge.
For more information, visit here. https://www.wrps.on.ca/en/index.aspx
