Drive for School Supplies is underway

The United Way of Yuma County is once again reaching out to the public for assistance

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - For most people, a backpack is a basic necessity when going to school. But, for many a backpack is a luxury.

It might be unthinkable, but some children start school without the bare essentials like paper or pencils. And, in a day and age where budget cuts force schools to require parents to provide copy paper and even soap, the pressure is on.

If you've ever seen it or lived it, it's absolutely heartbreaking.

That's why the Drive for School Supplies exists and for 20 years nonprofits and volunteers have come together to make sure that our children start the school year off right.

At present-day, the Drive for School Supplies is spearheaded by the United Way of Yuma County. And, this year the organization is yet again holding the drive but instead of focusing on supplies, they're asking for monetary donations.

In the past, supplies came from area residents, groups, and businesses, and many times there would be too much of one thing and not enough of another.

That's why Karina Jones, the Executive Director for the United Way of Yuma County says that money allows them to buy everything they need to make sure every child received school supplies.

All you have to do is visit the United Way website and donate. This year's goal is 5,000 backpacks, all filled with the basic necessities.

Once collected the backpacks will be delivered to schools throughout Yuma County.