The Inn of the Good Shepherd has started filling backpacks for area students as a new school year approaches.
Executive Director Myles Vanni said the approximately 1,000 backpacks for both elementary and secondary students , will include everything from pens and highlighters to math kits and calculators.
"The backpacks are distributed here in Sarnia but also throughout Lambton County as well," said Vanni. "So we work with agencies or food banks in other communities, as well as with our mobile market truck, to distribute the backpacks to kids in the smaller communities."
Vanni said those wanting to donate towards the kits can drop off donations at the Inn of the Good Shepherd, or purchase ready made kits at Manley's Basics in Point Edward.
Distribution is set for later this month, ahead of the Labour Day weekend.
"We want those kids to walk to school that first day with that backpack on their back, just like any other child," said Vanni. "We don't want them getting to school and not having the supplies and kind of being centered out a bit."
The kits will be distributed on Saturday, August 26 from 9 a.m. until 12 p.m. at Temple Baptist Church on Quinn Drive, and at the Inn Wednesday August 30 and Thursday August 31st from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
You're asked to bring with you proof of income, or an Ontario Works or ODSP slip, and identification for each child.