Backpacks to be distributed at Salvation Army

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- Backpacks for students were distributed on Thursday at the Salvation Army center.

In order to be eligible to receive a backpack, parents must provide a valid birth certificate and a Social Security card. If one of the documents is not readily available, a tax document or Medicaid card will suffice.

"It's absolutely amazing to be able to have this resource available for our community," local parent Bethany Sexton said. "It's very much appreciated."

Roughly 100 families came to the distribution event, with 300 backpacks picked up in the morning alone.

"It feels good to see the kids get their their backpacks," Salvation Army Social Services Director Emily Bravo said. "They are so excited to receive backpacks. We love doing this and we plan to keep do it for many years to come."

Extra backups will be made available at the United Way of Greater St. Joseph. For additional information on the backpack distribution or questions, call the Salvation Army at (816) 232-5824.