Backpack Attack Drive Begins to Collect School Supplies for Kids

Last year, IUPUI's Backpack Attack donations exceeded 33,000 supplies, which was more than any other participating organization... (2005 release).

INDIANAPOLIS – The drive by 250 organizations to put basic school supplies in the hands of more than 25,000 children in Indianapolis is underway.

Started eight years ago, Backpack Attack helps kids whose families struggle to meet basic needs. According to the United Way, up to 78% of Indianapolis Public School students start the school year with no or few school supplies, putting them at a disadvantage from the first day of school.

Instead of being an exciting time, the start of school for kids without necessary school supplies brings undue stress in the classroom and at home.

Backpack Attack is led by Bridges to Success, Indianapolis Public Schools, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, United Way of Central Indiana, and the YMCA of Greater Indianapolis.

By giving these students the “tools of the trade,” donors help to create the conditions that are essential to their academic success.

School supplies, including backpacks, erasers, rulers, crayons, art boxes, scissors, glue sticks, pencil sharpeners, ink pens, pencils and colored pencils, notebook paper and pocket folders will be collected through July 28. These supplies will then be distributed directly to K-12 students in Indianapolis Public Schools and to students throughout Marion County at the Backpack Attack Back-to-School Fest.

For more information about Backpack Attack, contact Marty Posch at 278-8573.