Organizations prepare new backpacks for students in Franklin County

GREENFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – Hundreds of backpacks will be donated to students in need in Franklin County.

The supplies were dropped off Thursday evening in Greenfield for the annual Blooming Backpacks event. With the help of Women’s Way and United Way of Franklin and Hampshire Region, many more students will now be prepared for class.

“That’s one less thing for their families to worry about and pay for when prices are already so high”, says Jenny Coeur, program director of United Way of Franklin and Hampshire Region.

A recent consumer report found the most affordable price for back-to-school items can be found at Walmart. That average is around $70.00. Volunteers with Women’s Way believe easing that financial burden can make a difference for not only a parent but also a child.

“Schools and teachers often pull money out of their own pocket to supply for kids in their classrooms and this helps fill that void”, says Mary Rawls, a volunteer with Women’s Way. If you missed today’s event, you can still donate on their website.

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