[FOXBOROUGH, FRANKLIN, MANSFIELD, NORTH ATTLEBORO, MA] – Operation Backpack is now underway at the Hockomock Area YMCA and seeks the support of local businesses and individuals. Committed to building healthy, confident, connected, and secure children, the YMCA has a goal of providing fully stocked backpacks to the commuity before the fall school year begins.

“Bringing together donors and volunteers to support area families in need reflects our Y’s commitment to serve and strengthen our communities,” says Jim Downs, CEO of the Hockomock Area YMCA. “Having access to backpacks and supplies is integral to a student’s success. As many families in our area face financial difficulties, we want to make sure that all kids have the supplies they need to start the upcoming school year off right. Your support with this Backpack Drive will help children and neighbors in need in our 15 town service area.”
New supplies and backpacks are requested now through August 9th. The Backpack Drive is a collaborative effort made possible by YMCA staff, program participants, partners, and neighbors to provide kids with the confidence that comes when boys and girls are able to go to school prepared.
Donation bins are located at all Hockomock Area YMCA facilities: Invensys Foxboro Branch, 67 Mechanic Street, Foxborough; Bernon Family Branch, 45 Forge Hill Road, Franklin; Mansfield Arts & Education Center, 40 Balcom Street, Mansfield; and Hurley Family Branch, 300 Elmwood Street, North Attleboro. 
Community members who would like to sponsor the Backpack Drive are asked to contact Patrick Murphy at (508) 643-5262 or via email at [email protected]. Sponsorship levels range from $500, which will provide 20 backpacks to students in need, to Presenting Sponsor at $10,000, which is a giving level ensuring that 500 children will receive needed supplies. Be sure to inquire about all sponsorship levels by contacting the Y today.

In addition to monetary donations, the Y is requesting the following supplies: backpacks for all ages including elementary, middle school, and high school, pencil boxes for all ages, binders, notebooks and folders. Complete details and how to help are available at hockymca.org/backpack-drive.

For more information about the Hockomock YMCA, visit hockymca.org.