Backpacks line the halls at United Way in Chatham for operation backpack. August. 29, 2016. (Photo by Natalia Vega)Backpacks line the halls at United Way in Chatham for operation backpack. August. 29, 2016. (Photo by Natalia Vega)
Sarnia

Inn launches backpack program to help local youth

The Inn of the Good Shepherd needs help to make sure local students have the supplies they need for the coming school year.

The organization has launched its 13th annual Back to School Backpack program to help families prepare for September.

Executive Director Myles Vanni encourages residents to donate school items to the less fortunate.

"For many of our families who are struggling, they're working part-time jobs, it's really difficult when you're kind of getting by paycheck to paycheck and all of a sudden you have something big like back to school," said Vanni. "The kindergarten kids will get crayons in their backpack, but the high school students will get scientific calculators. So, it's all tailored for the specific grades."

Vanni said local partners include CF Industries, Suncor, and Ontario Power Generation.

He said they distributed 620 kits in 2018, and expect more of a demand this year.

You can donate at the inn at 115 John St. in Sarnia, or buy a pre-packaged kit at either Manley's Basics or Staples.

Clients of the inn can pick up a backpack starting on August 27.

Read More Local Stories

New military crosswalk rendering. (Image courtesy of the Sarnia Legion Branch 62)

New military crosswalk in Sarnia to be unveiled

As part of a partnership between the Sarnia Legion Branch 62 and City of Sarnia, an unveiling ceremony will be held at the corner of Christina Street and Wellington Street on Sunday, June 7, at 2 p.m.

Members of the Sarnia Police Service entering a Tashmoo Avenue residence on June 4, 2026. (Photo courtesy of the Sarnia Police Service)

Two men arrested in Tashmoo Ave. standoff

Sarnia police said the investigation began on May 29 after the victim was allegedly attacked by acquaintances at a residence near Tashmoo Avenue and Christopher Drive at Aamjiwnaang First Nation.