Help kids get the school supplies they need

It’s the fourth year The City’s been partnering with Staples in the Staples for Education program and this year marks the first that they’re struggling to fill the need. Last year they filled approximately 1,100 backpacks with school supplies; the need is now for almost 2,100 but current donations will only fill about 1,500.

How much does it cost to fill a backpack? That depends on the grade:

• Kindergarten to grade 6: $40
• Grades 7 – 9: $50
• Grades 10 – 12: $60-70

While most of the needed supplies are pretty typical, like pencils, pens, paper and glue, approximately 800 high school students need graphing calculators, which cost about $120 each.

Your donation is needed, and it’s easy. Drop off supplies at any Calgary Staples store – there’ll be a box set out next to the entrance – or simply add a cash value when you’re paying at the counter – cash, debit and credit are all accepted. Donations of $200 or more can get a tax receipt through The City.

Check the drop-off locations for a Staples near you.

I went shopping with Lindsay Miller, social worker for The City’s Community & Neighbourhood Services group, to learn more about the program. Check out the video below: