Image Credit: CFJC Today

By Michael Reeve

BACKPACK PROGRAM

Backpacks slated to help those less fortunate stolen from Salvation Army

Jul 10, 2023 | 4:22 PM

KAMLOOPS — Every fall, the Kamloops Salvation Army’s backpack program helps families with financial struggles in the community get ready for back-to-school. Last year, 140 children in Kamloops received backpacks, water bottles and discounts for haircuts, as well as discounts and gift cards for footwear.

The Salvation Army was working toward the event again this year, but have now seen 95 of its donated backpacks stolen.

Resource Centre Coordinator Susanne Flukinger noted sadly, the theft is not covered by their insurance.

“Going back to school is expensive. It costs families a lot of money. Children need backpacks, lunch boxes, water bottles. Another big thing they need is shoes — usually two pairs, indoor and outdoor. We try to support families with that,” said Flukinger. “Families who are struggling with those costs apply, we meet with each family and determine their need. We provide them with these. For high school students, we try to provide them with binders and paper as well.”

Sound Off

SOUND OFF: How to reduce food waste in Kamloops during the festive season

3h ago

Looped In

LOOPED IN WITH NIKKI OMEN: December 12, 2024

21h ago

One Man's Opinion

COLLINS: North Shore BIA working hard to develop a 'happening place'

Dec 12, 2024

The team was looking to secure around 200 backpacks for this year’s program and is now starting from scratch. The packs are set to be distributed to those in the community in late August.

“We think the need will be bigger than ever this year. Last year, we served about 140 children. Some of them came from the Ukraine or other countries on refugee status. With the expense crisis going up this year, we think there will be more applications than ever from our local families as well. We would appreciate any support we can get because this really has set us back,” said Flukinger.