HARRISBURG, Pa. — While many are enjoying the beach, the Salvation Army needs bookbags, binders, and books for kids.
The charitable organization is aiming to provide more than 375 kids with backpacks and school supplies, but they need the public's help to make it happen.
"Right now, we are in the prime back-to-school season," says Toni Lynn-Mark, a resource development director for Salvation Army Harrisburg Capital City Region.
Organizers anticipate that 375 kids will need supplies for the upcoming school year, which is a significant increase compared to last year. Mark says that this increase is due to inflation.
"If you're choosing between food and a binder for school, you might have to choose food. That's where we step in and say, 'No, you will have those supplies…we'll help you,'" she explained.
Mark emphasized that providing supplies for students isn’t just for their education but for their future as well.
"We know that if we can reach these kids early, we can break cycles of poverty and ensure that these kids receive an education and have a long-term path to self-sufficiency to support themselves and their families," Mark added.
In addition to school supplies, kids also receive a voucher for shoes and one outfit. Mark explained that this support goes beyond just having something to wear.
"Success isn’t just about having the right supplies; sometimes it's being comfortable in your clothing. Having a pair of shoes that get you to and from is crucial. The support that we provide these families is robust, and it will contribute to their long-term success," she said.
Mark acknowledged that they can count on the community's support but emphasized the urgent need as the demand continues to grow. "We hate to ask our community to help us," she added.
The Salvation Army is accepting donations throughout July.
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