For over a decade, our Leavenworth Family Support Center (FSC) has held an annual backpack distribution event. The drive has become a tradition in the rural community, helping countless children get prepared for the school year.
“I started working at Catholic Charities in 2014, and there was a whole room in the basement set aside for school supplies,” recalled Jackie Masoner, Leavenworth FSC Manager.
This year, 250 backpacks were distributed to local children. In addition to backpack donations, the FSC met its goal of funding the remaining supplies through a successful community appeal.
This year also included a special expansion to the drive, with the FSC’s Cinderella Closet—an initiative that provides prom dresses to girls who might not otherwise afford them. Over 80 dresses were distributed during the drive.
One particularly heartwarming story involved a single father picking up backpacks for his two teenage daughters. “We had prom dresses available in the courtyard, and he mentioned that he wouldn’t be able to choose for them,” shared Masoner. “Later, I saw a volunteer carefully pulling every dress on the rack for him. He left with dresses and the biggest smile. Hopefully, his daughters loved the dresses as much as we enjoyed watching him pick them out.”
We are so thankful for all who donated to this year’s event. Your support makes a difference to so many in our rural and local communities!
