Volunteers of America Texas to distribute hundreds of backpacks to students in need.
FORT WORTH, TX — The start of a new school year can be exciting for a child, but for parents the rising cost of supplies could put a damper on that enthusiasm.
Volunteers of America (VOA) Texas is taking the stress out of back-to-school preparation with its Operation Backpack® school supply drive and giveaway.
“With Operation Backpack®, we are leveraging the academic playing field for children in need,” Angela King, President, and CEO with VOA Texas said about the annual partnership. “We strive to create healthier communities for all, and I believe it starts with our kids.”
According to the National Retail Federation, families with children in elementary through high school plan to spend an average of $890.07 on back-to-school items this year, approximately $25 more than last year’s record of $864.35 and a new high.
“VOA is known for being ‘barrier busters’ meaning we remove any barriers we can so that our clients and students can be successful,” King said. “Now more than ever, we need to rally together to set our kids up for success and it starts with providing the basics, such as a backpack filled with school supplies.”
VOA Texas is hosting a backpack giveaway Saturday, August 5 from 10am-2pm at 2401 Scott Ave., Fort Worth, TX. In addition to the backpacks, VOA Texas will provide food, drinks, and fun activities for the families who attend. Children must be present to receive a backpack.
This effort is made possible each year by VOA National’s partnership with Niagara Cares, the charitable arm of Niagara Bottling. This year, VOA Texas welcomed partners Daimler Truck Financial Services who also provided backpacks and supplies and Legends who will provide food for the event.
Each year the organization gives out more than 700 backpacks and school supplies. For more information, visit www.voatx.org/operation-backpack.
About Volunteers of America Texas
Volunteers of America Texas is a nonprofit, ministry of service that strengthens communities through an array of services including substance abuse treatment and prevention, affordable housing, community re-entry, employment training and disabilities services. With locations in more than 30 urban and rural communities, Volunteers of America Texas has been helping those who need the most help for more than 127 years. For information, visit www.voatx.org.
Contact:
Ericka English
Director of Marketing and Communications
(817) 529-7363
eenglish@voatx.org