On Saturday, July 20, children and families visited Prairie River Middle School to pick up backpacks and school supplies. Through the generous donations of individuals, organizations, and businesses, those young students are off to a great start for the 2019-2020 school year. Organizers reported overwhelming support for the project again this year.
Monetary donations are still graciously accepted, allowing Merrill Forward Together Healthy Community Initiative (MFTHCI) to purchase items during upcoming back-to-school sales and at closeout sale prices for those still needing backpacks and supplies and for next year’s distribution. Donations can be sent to MFTHCI-Backpacks at PO Box 793 in Merrill.
Unfortunately, the backpacks and supplies were handed out on the Saturday, following severe Friday night storms that hit the Merrill area and many were unable to pick up supplies. Families who qualify for free or reduced school lunch under federal guidelines that are new to the Merrill area, or were unable to pick up backpacks on the distribution date, should contact Casey Hanson at the Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin Community Services at (715) 539-5443.