Salvation Army Backpack Program Returns to Support Vulnerable Families

As fall approaches, families prepare for the new school year. Supplies such as backpacks, notebooks and pencils may seem like simple purchases, but costs can quickly add up, creating financial pressure for many households.

For parents trying to prepare their children for school while balancing a tight budget, The Salvation Army in Regina’s annual backpack program is back to ensure students have the tools they need for the upcoming academic year.

For Mykaela, as a parent, having access to this help eases a lot of stress.

“The backpack lifts a weight off my shoulders before the new school year. Supplies sometimes cost more than I can afford,” she says.

“The backpack lifts a weight off my shoulders before the new school year.”

Families who participate receive backpacks full of essentials, helping reduce expenses that come with the return to classes.

For Lyn, the program frees up more of her income.

“Being a single mom, this program takes out some of the pressure of preparing my kids for school with costs rising. This makes a difference,” she says. “It helps me budget for other things that are still needed. I’m grateful every year.”

The initiative has an easy and welcoming sign-up process for families. On pickup day, parents who registered visit The Salvation Army, where volunteers greet them with a smile and provide the supplies.

“It helps me budget for other things that are still needed.”

“It was a good experience,” says Tammy (not her real name), a parent and participant. “The backpacks were distributed in a very methodical manner. The process was very smooth.”

Many families welcome the additional assistance, for others like John the program is the only way they can acquire supplies.

“My children didn’t have anything prior to The Salvation Army giving us the backpacks,” John says. “They ended up returning to school very excited.”

Other participants not only expressed gratitude for The Salvation Army but also appreciated the community’s support.

“Being able to access this assistance means a lot to my family,” a mother named Oluremi shares. “It showed us that people care and that we’re supported, especially during tough times.”

The backpack program runs at many Salvation Army locations across Canada, helping children to begin the school year fully equipped to learn.

By Juan Romero