With school starting back up in Airdrie on September 5, the need for school supplies is greater than ever, according to Stephen's Backpack Society.

According to Nancy McPhee, the Executive Director of the society, there has been a 30-40 per cent increase when it comes to people asking for help with getting school supplies.

Just recently, Stephen's Backpack Society was a part of the King's Court Church "Back to School BBQ". Over the two hour span of the barbeque, the society gave out 120 backpacks.

"We probably had close to 400 people at the barbecue. I can't tell you how hard everybody worked there to coordinate this event. It was awesome!"

The free barbecue featured plenty of fun for the family including pony rides, face painting, and a balloon artist.

McPhee mentioned she gets phone calls almost every day of people asking for help. According to her she has an order of 165 backpacks which she went out shopping for.

"I would encourage teachers that if kids come into the classroom, and they don't have supplies, we'll do our very best, even after school starts to keep meeting the needs as they come up."

The prices of supplies are also going in the wrong direction.

"The supplies have gone up probably from about $30 -$40, up to $65 and that's without the backpack."

McPhee is asking for help from anybody that is willing to donate some supplies.

"If anybody out there can make some donations, that would be great. I think the need is going to continue even throughout the school year, there are a lot of families really struggling out there and it's not fair that kids walk into the classroom without supplies."

If you are interested in making a donation or learn more about the society, click HERE.

Stephen's Backpack Society also plans on refurnishing three homes this year for families in need before gearing up in preparation for their Christmas Backpacks.

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