Summer may be in full swing, but the new school year is right around the corner. For many students, this is an exciting time, but for young people impacted by trauma, it can be a difficult, anxiety-provoking experience. To ensure these young people have the supplies they need to reach their full potential, Kids Above All is kicking off their annual Back-To-School Backpack Drive. Here’s how you can help: now through Wednesday, August 20, Kids Above All is collecting backpacks and supplies for the 1,500 school-aged children in their programs. These donations will help ensure the youth are ready to learn in the fall. Individuals, businesses, faith-based organizations, and community organizations are invited to participate. An Amazon Wishlist has also been created, allowing you to shop and ship items directly to Kids Above All for your convenience. Gift cards are always welcome.  To schedule a drop-off, volunteer, or for more information, please contact Zulma Colon at (773) 794-7991 or via email at zcolon@kidsaboveall.org. For more details about the drive, visit KAA’s website. Donations can be dropped off at Kids Above All’s Better Life Distribution Center in Des Plaines, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, through August 20; reservations are required. If shopping via Amazon, items will be shipped directly to KAA.

Photo Credit: Kids Above All