SPOKANE, Wash — The Salvation Army Spokane is working to remove financial barriers for students heading back to school this weekend with its 17th annual Backpacks for Kids event, providing 3,000 free backpacks filled with school supplies to families in need.
The event takes place Saturday, August 1, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Salvation Army Spokane, 223 E. Nora Ave. Backpacks will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis to students in grades K through 12.
“There’s a lot of families out there today that are struggling,” said Captain David Cain of The Salvation Army Spokane. “We just want to make sure there are no barriers between a kid being successful this school year, and so this is a great chance for the Salvation Army to open up our campus to our community.”
Beyond backpacks and supplies, the event offers families access to resources and services they need as students prepare for the new school year. Attendees can receive free immunizations, browse a vendor resource fair featuring more than 30 local organizations, visit a mobile Bible exhibit, and enjoy a petting zoo. Free hotdogs will be available while supplies last.
“This event is about much more than backpacks,” Cain said. “It’s about helping children begin the school year with confidence while connecting families to resources, support, and a day of community celebration. Every child deserves to start the school year feeling prepared and excited to learn.”
Parents or guardians must present a photo ID and proof that children live in the household. Acceptable proof of residency includes school registration documents, DSHS statements, student IDs, or medical cards.
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