Fundraising efforts and local businesses have succeeded in having enough backpacks for families in need throughout Corner Brook and the Bay of Islands. The annual “Stuff the backpacks” took place at Staples last week and donations or school supplies are still being accepted there until tomorrow (August 27th). The event is held each year in partnership with the Vince Place Community Centre and Executive Director Mike Kearley says 180 people registered to get a backpack this year, which is up over the past couple of years but they can meet the need.
Kearley expects the number of people looking for help will increase next year. He says people are feeling the financial pinch of the ongoing trade war with the U.S and inflation is driving this with higher prices on everything.
Meanwhile, Kearley says donations or supplies are always accepted which gives them a head start on meeting the need next year.
Vine Place will be handing out backpacks to registered families tomorrow and Friday.
