The Esperança Women’s Guild, a local volunteer group that assists low-income families in Phoenix, is holding a backpack drive from now until July 31, 2012.  They are hoping to acquire new backpacks and supplies (paper, notebooks, color pencils, crayons, erasers and glue) to help send low-income children back to school with the necessary items.  The backpacks will be distributed to children between the ages of 5-17 at the Golden Gate Community Center, one of Esperança’s local programs.

All of the children are taking part in a 6-week summer enrichment program.  During the program, they participate in recreational, cultural enrichment, educational, and life skill activities. On the last day, each child receives a backpack filled with age-appropriate school supplies, and a gift card to purchase new shoes for school. These are items that many families are not able to afford otherwise.

If you don’t have time to shop for a backpack or supplies, but would like to help, you can also send a check to Esperanca, 1911 W. Earll Dr. Phoenix, AZ 85015 and indicate it’s for the “Backpack Fund”, donate online or call Kevin at 602.252.7772 ext. 104 to make a payment by phone.

For more information or schedule a time to drop off backpacks and supplies, call Maria at 602.252.7772 ext. 108. Thanks for your support!