Backpack programs help kids in need with supplies ahead of back-to-school

As the back-to-school season approaches, local non-profits are ensuring families in need are stocked up with supplies.

The Calgary Catholic Immigration Society (CCIS), in partnership with Humaniti Foundation and MUHSEN Canada, hosted its first annual backpack giveaway program on Saturday.

The Beyond Backpacks initiative was born in Toronto, and has supported thousands of families as it expanded across the country. On Saturday, 1,000 backpacks were distributed to low-income families across Alberta.

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“E ven working Canadians are finding it difficult to maintain their regular expenses, and many families have to make the tough decision whether to put food on the table, or to pay rent, or to pay utilities, or to get their kids ready for school,” said Nawal Al-Busaidi, director of programs for Humaniti Foundation.

“For us, it’s about providing equal opportunity, providing access, eliminating barriers, but most importantly, building dignity,” she said.

Several hundred boxes of school supplies and hygiene products were donated by a combination of individuals and corporate donors, said Amber Rehman, Humaniti’s program consultant for Western Canada.

“W e tried to do everything with materials and school bags that were extremely good quality, so that children that are walking away with backpacks are feeling that confidence, that this will be part of their student experience in the following years,” she said.

Hasmik Asmaryan, director of b usiness, e mployment and t raining s ervices at CCIS, said the need continues to grow, so the hope is for the program to continue to expand each year.

“F or parents who are exploring and navigating new systems, going through a job search process, learning English — just imagine, they are yet to think about preparing their kids for school,” she said.

“F or kids also, it’s a huge message because, beyond getting a backpack, they are getting the message that the community cares for them.”

For Peter Gatjalvuotkoal, who came to Calgary from South Sudan earlier this year, the program is a big help. With six kids ages 17 and under, the cost of school supplies stacks up.

“W e are so excited,” he said. “ Even the kids, they are so happy about that.”