The deadline to apply for the United Way of Bay County backpack program is fast approaching

BAY CITY, MI – An annual back-to-school program is coming back this year. However, time is running out and applications for the program are due immediately.

The Bay County United Way is once again offering the Helen Wirt Lee Back-to-School Clothing and Backpack Program, in partnership with the Bay Area Community Foundation Youth Advisory Committee. Each student receives new clothes, underwear and shoes as well as a backpack full of supplies. Applications for the program are due Friday July 9.

“We know that over 8,000 children in Bay County are eligible for this program and we want to help as many of them as possible,” said Nicole Luczak, President and CEO of United Way of Bay County. “We want families to know this is available, it is the only program in Michigan that provides clothing rather than backpacks and supplies.”

“We want all children to go back to school confident and prepared, ready to learn. The first step is to provide them with these basic necessities, ”added Luczak.

According to new ALICE 2021 data, in Bay County, 35% of families are in or below the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) threshold; a total of over 15,000 households in our community struggling to meet their daily needs.

To apply, visit https://www.unitedwaybaycounty.org/get-help/clothes-for-children/ or call 989.893.7508 for more information.

If you or your business / organization would like to get involved by volunteering or donating, please contact us at 989.893.7508 or [email protected].

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