Penquis’ ‘We’ve Got Your Back’ program under way

Penquis C.A.P., Inc. (Penquis) has launched its annual “We’ve Got Your Back” program. The program, sponsored by Blueberry Broadcasting, Katahdin Trust, and Bangor International Airport, helps students in grades K-12 living in Penobscot, Piscataquis, and Knox counties receive assistance in the way of a backpack and basic school supplies which helps them be prepared for a new school year. Approximately 1,200 children are served through this program each year.

“As the cost of living remains high, many families struggle to absorb all of the costs that come with a new school year,” says Penquis Community Relations Manager Renae Muscatell. “Through giving to ‘We’ve Got Your Back’, many children will have the confidence and tools needed for a great start to the 2024-25 school year because of the kindness and generosity of those who donate. When a child takes their new backpack and supplies to school on that first day, they will know it’s because there’s someone in the community who cares and wants their school experience to be the best it can be. Community contributions mean so much to both the parents and children.”

“We’ve Got Your Back” will be participating in three upcoming events to raise money for the program and get backpacks for children who need them. Three upcoming events that we would appreciate assistance with:

Wednesday, July 24 from 3-10 p.m., Chick-fil-A in Bangor (605 Stillwater Avnue) will be donating 10 percent of proceeds from orders placed on the mobile app to “We’ve Got Your Back”.

Friday, July 26 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Penquis’ annual Fill the Van event will take place in Shaw’s’ parking lot in Dover-Foxcroft (1073 West Main Street).

Thursday, Aug. 8 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., United Way Stuff the Bus event will be held in the Bangor Walmart’s parking lot (900 Stillwater Avenue).

There are many other ways to support the program. Individuals can donate directly to the program on We’ve Got Your Back’s website https://www.penquis.org/wgyb/ , use text to give by texting 44321 GIVEBACKPACKS, or drop off backpacks and supplies at either Penquis located at 262 Harlow Street Bangor. Backpacks and supplies will begin to be sorted and distributed starting Aug. 12.

All the distributed backpacks and school supplies are either donated or purchased with donated funds. “It’s a community that makes this program happen,” says Muscatell.

Penquis is a community action agency serving families in Penobscot, Piscataquis, and Knox counties. Any questions about We’ve Got Your Back can be directed to info@penquis.org .