The United Way Bruce Grey Backpack Program is in full swing this summer, and they will pack their 25,000th backpack! The United Way are inviting the public to help celebrate this milestone by taking part in their Great Canadian Backpack Challenge happening Thursday, July 25th from 10 am to 3 pm.
The event will be similar to a “scavenger hunt” type format and will lead teams of 1 to 2 people from the United way office to a number of pre-determined locations in or close to downtown Owen Sound. The route to complete all stops measures 2 kilometres in length and we expect that most teams will finish within one hour.Teams will be given a backpack with a clue that will take them to their first stop where they will receive a school supply item for their backpack. This item will have a clue to direct them to their next stop, and so on. When the teams have filled their backpacks, they can then return to the United Way office for refreshments. Also, one lucky team will win a prize and a chance to pack the coveted 25,000th backpack!
Cost is $25 per team and all proceeds will support the United Way Bruce Grey Backpack Program. Teams are encouraged to collect pledges from multiple people interested in supporting the event. A Pledge Form may be downloaded from the United Way Bruce Grey website at UnitedWayOfBruceGrey.com or by e-mailing [email protected]. Teams are asked to pre-register for a time slot by calling the United Way Bruce Grey at 519-376-1560.
Since 2005, thanks to the generosity of their donors, the United Way Bruce Grey has packed and distributed over 23,000 backpacks to children of low income homes across Bruce and Grey Counties. In 2018, the organization saw a dramatic increase in need and distributed 2,456 backpacks throughout the two counties.
If parents require assistance providing backpacks and school supplies for their child/children, they can call 211 to register.
To find out more about the Backpack Program or The Great Canadian Backpack Challenge, please visit www.Backpacks4Kids.ca.
Secure online donations may be made through Canada Helps at www.DonateToday.ca or at the United Way office at 380 9th Street East in Owen Sound.
For more information, please contact:
Sarah Raynsford, Backpack Coordinator, United Way Bruce Grey
Ph: 519-376-1560
E-mail: [email protected]
source:media release
