Please help our children succeed | IN OUR OPINION

Published 9:54 am Friday, July 24, 2015

The days are long, the sun is shining, and the temperatures rising.

For most kids, going back to school is something best thought about tomorrow — or weeks from now.

But for many on Bainbridge, the notion of students going back to class is an urgent call to action.

Each year, as the first day of school approaches, dozens and dozens of Bainbridge children start to think about that day, and their thoughts aren’t filled with joy of reuniting with classmates or the excitement of what the new school year will bring. Instead, it’s a day to dread. That’s because many families struggle to be able to afford the basic necessities of getting set for school; new clothes and shoes, notebooks and pens, backpacks, and other vital supplies.

Committed groups and volunteers across the island, though, are jumping into action.

This weekend, Keep it on the Rock will host a “Ruby Shoes Family Walk” on Saturday, July 25 at Battle Point Park to raise money to buy new shoes for kids going back to school.

And starting next week, Project Backpack will kick off to raise supplies and cash donations for students in need.

It’s the 15th year for Helpline House’s annual event, and Project Backpack will run from Aug. 1 through Aug. 25.

Organizers note that backpacks of all sizes — plus spiral notebooks and monetary donations — are needed. (Other donation suggestions can be found at helplinehouse.org).

Coin collection boxes will be set up at Winslow Drug, Wildernest, Bay Massage, and the Project Backpack booth at the Bainbridge Island Farmers Market on Saturdays at Town Square.

Last year, Project Backpack helped 155 students in need. Your generous donations can help Helpline House exceed that number this year, or help Keep it on the Rock in its efforts to get children off on the right foot when school begins.

Please give — your help is appreciated and truly needed.