Published July 18, 2019
NORTH READING — The “Who Needs a Backpack Project” has returned for the second year under the direction of Debbie Sharp, an educational consultant from Who’s Learning Now of North Reading.
DEBBIE SHARP, together with her children Sisi, 11, and Bryce, 9, and other local children, are collecting stuffed backpacks for children who are not able to afford new backpacks and school supplies. (Courtesy Photo)
Together with her children, Sisi, 11, and Bryce, 9, and other local children, they are collecting stuffed backpacks for local area children who are not able afford new backpacks and school supplies.
Their mission is that every child should start a new school year with dignity.
Who’s Learning Now is partnering with the North Reading Food Pantry, Department of Children and Families (DCF) and the Lazarus House in Lawrence to help find homes for each backpack they collect. Last year, this group collected donations from businesses as well as enough supplies and backpacks from community members to fill 166 backpacks. Their goal this year is to fill over 200 packs.
There are drop off locations at the North Reading School of Ballet (NRSB), Ryer’s Store, the Flint Memorial Library, North Reading Police Station and The UPS Store on Main Street.
Backpacks and supplies will be collected until Friday, August 23.
Contact Debbie Sharp by email at: WhosLearningNow@gmail.com with any questions or concerns.
