Operation Backpack in Summerside continues to grow

A program in Summerside that collects school supplies and backpacks for families in need of some extra help, is continuingto grow.

Donations are being accepted now until the end of the month as part ofOperation Backpack.

The program was started four years ago by some members of the Summerside Community Church who wanted to do something on a local level to help children.

It has grown every year since, with more than 400 families in Summerside and some surrounding areas being helped in 2015.

This kind of assistance can really ease the financial strain felt by some families this time of year, according to program founder,Deb Howatt-Gallant.

'The heart of where people are'

"It has become a huge expense for families of course so having this little bit of added help, is a bonus," said Howatt-Gallant.

"I have had parents who call and it is hard for them to make that call sometimes. So when they do, they are telling me a little bit about their life story and when they do you are like how could anybody not help?You get to hear the heart of where people are."

Howatt-Gallant notedit's really nice for children to have some new things when they head back to school. She believesit gives them confidence and can set them up for success.

Drop-off locations include the Summerside Community Church, the Salvation Army Thrift store, the South Shore Pharmacy in Crapaud as well as the Summerside library, the Confederation Centre library and the library in Montague.

MORE P.E.I. NEWS I Pot, pills seized after P.E.I. motorcyclist stopped for traffic violation

MORE P.E.I. NEWS I $1.9M to improve access to services for victims of crime on P.E.I.