Backpack giveaway helps supply 400 backpacks to families in the Northstate

Redding, CA — Shasta County Department of Child Support Services hosted their 7th annual free backpack and school supply giveaway drive-thru event Friday morning for children of all ages.

Families lined up early, waiting for the event to begin at Park Marina Drive. Parents were required to have their children present to receive a backpack.

Lana Johnson, Supervisor and Outreach Coordinator, said it was a huge turnout this year compared to last year's giveaway.

"This is the most significant and successful year we've had. Last year, we served 180 children, and we set a goal for this year of 200, and we surpassed that goal through the community's kindness and donations. We are going to serve 402 children today," said Johnson.

Johnson says due to the nationwide financial strain many Americans are feeling, having the ability to help families who are financially struggling is aspiring.

"We all feel the financial situation's pinch. Families are struggling, and getting the kid equipped for their return to school is an additional expense."

With the help from the community and the public donating the backpack and school supplies, Johnson says this event would not have been possible.

"It's a huge blessing. We had the community pull through, we've had local businesses pull through, donations from county agencies, public agencies, everyone has rallied around this and made this possible."