A study from World Remit shows the cost of school supplies across the country has increased by over 25% since this time last year. YMCA of Greater Cleveland Vice President of Youth Development Tish Bowling said she sees how inflation is impacting families regularly.
The YMCA started Operation Backpack four years ago, partnering with area schools and PTA’s to help give struggling families' bank accounts a break when it comes to this expensive time of year. Studies show, on average, it costs over $220 dollars per child to send them back to school with needed clothes and stationery. The YMCA is asking for donations of backpacks, notebooks, pencils, paper, pens, crayons, scissors and glue.
Operation Backpack circles back to the Y’s overall mission; to give everyone, regardless of their background, the opportunity, and in this case tools, to reach their full potential.