Backpack Program Brings Hope and Dignity to Kids and Parents

For many parents, getting their children ready to return to school can be a stressful process. Thankfully The Salvation Army Backpack Program is there to help along the way.

“We gave out over 1,100 backpacks so far this year,” explains Patti Legal, Resource Specialist for The Salvation Army Community Services (Calgary.) “Many of our clients are new to Canada and don’t understand what a geometry set or duo tang is. Add to this the stress of trying to prepare their family for the culture shock that comes with living in a new country.“

Staff and volunteers who work for The Salvation Army Community Support Services are consistently rewarded with positive responses from the children receiving the backpacks. Some of the young girls whistle with excitement as they are handed a themed pack like Hello Kitty. Recently a little boy was so excited to receive a Thomas the Train backpack, he literally squealed as he dumped out the contents onto the floor.

“When you are raising a family on $800 a month from Alberta Works and the Canadian Child Tax Benefit, the immense strain that comes along with “back to school” can be overwhelming,” says Legal. “Parents just want the best for their children and when they can’t provide that they feel as if they’re robbed of their dignity. Families are pleased with the initial help of backpacks and school supplies and ultimately it’s the great sense of relief and hope knowing that their children will have what they need to move forward in school and in life.“