The Sacramento-area community was more than generous last year – Operation Backpack 2009 exceeded its goal and collected more than 3,000 backpacks. That more than doubled 2008’s figure and demonstrates that even in tough economic times, children in need command attention.
Latest statistics show that more than 5,000 Sacramento County school children are “homeless,” with some 40,000 living in poverty.
Through Operation Backpack, Volunteers of America provides a variety of support services to homeless families and their children, including much-needed new backpacks and school supplies to help young boys and girls in need reach their full academic potential.
This year, Jack, one of own Little Dragon students has decided to contribute to Operation Backpack by getting our dojo involved, but he needs your help! Jack and his family have set up a collection bin at the front entrance of the Coloma Center to collect any backpacks and school supplies that you can donate. Jack’s goal is 20 backpacks, but I think, combined, we can do at least 50!
For more information on Operation Backpack, you can visit the Volunteers of America website. They have a list of needed supplies there as well.