Waterloo Regional Police Send Thousands of Kids Back to School with a Smile

Waterloo Region, Ontario – The Waterloo Regional Police Service wrapped up its sixth annual Backpack Challenge this week with overwhelming success.

The Challenge, which ran throughout the summer, encouraged residents to purchase new backpacks, lunch bags, school supplies, or gift cards to be donated to children and families in need.

Due to the generosity of residents and local companies and organizations, the Backpack Challenge surpassed its goal, raising more than 6,000 backpacks and lunch boxes, as well as thousands of dollars in gift cards and school supplies. All items were donated to families and more than 25 child and youth organizations throughout Waterloo Region to ensure students have an exciting back-to-school experience and are prepared for the year ahead.

“Thank you to every individual, organization, and business who took the time to make a donation and, in doing so, helped to send thousands of children back to school with a smile,” said Mark Crowell, Chief of Police. “We are so grateful and proud to be part of this incredible community we all call home.”

More than 16,000 backpacks have been collected over the past six years, along with thousands of dollars in gift cards and school supplies.

Thank you, Waterloo Region!

Media Inquiries:

Waterloo Regional Police Service
Public Information Unit
519-570-9777 (WRPS) ext. 8188
publicinfo@wrps.on.ca

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