Giving kids a chance

"Children are the worlds

most valuable resource and

it's best hope for the future." - JFK

Well it's that time of year, and I'm sure you've noticed. Whether you have kids or not it's hard not to notice the rows and rows of school supplies at your local discount stores. When I was a kid I loved this time of year. Getting my new school supplies meant that school was just around the corner! As a parent I now look forward to instilling that same optimism and excitement into my own kids.

For many parents however, this time of year can be nerve-racking. Finding the money to pay for the ever growing list of needed school supplies has many parents wondering just where the money will come from. For parents with multiple children the task can seem almost impossible.

In 1999 The Waukesha BackPack Coalition was formed. It's mission is to bridge that unknown gap for parents. The Waukesha County Backpack Coalition is "committed to providing backpacks and school supplies for financially challenged students of Waukesha County" who are referred to them through various social service organizations through out the community. Rachel Fjellman, Social Services Director for The Salvation Army Waukesha states that in 2007, over 1800 children recieved backpacks and various other supplies through the Coalition.

The Coalition is funded entirely by the community. "We do not receive any grants or public funds," says Fjellman. While the Coalition does have "deals" worked out with a few vendors, the Coalition is reliant upon business, individuals, community groups etc... to do fundraising and collect supplies on their behalf. "Without this fantastic support by the Waukesha community we would not be able to operate this program," says Fjellman.

This month Todd and I took our $62 and purchased school supplies and back packs for 3 kindergarten level children. Plus one additional back pack, pencil box and box of pencils. We obtained a copy of the school supplies list from the Coalition's website and went to work trying to find as many bargains as possible. This was really an easy decision for me to make. Donating to the Coalition meant providing a child with the chance to start the school year right. For me this is fundamental. How can we expect children to succeed when they don't even have the most basic of tools essential to getting the job done.

Now is the time to act and make a difference. If you are interested in making a monetary or in-kind donation please visit the Coalition's website or contact Rachel Fjellman at 262-547-7367 ext 225,or Rachel_Fjellman@usc.salvationarmy.org Fjellman says The Coalition can also use volunteers to sort supplies, assemble backpacks etc.. They are also in need of the following in-kind services: web design, printing, and assembly space. If you think you can help don't hesitate!