With another school year just around the corner, Stephen’s Backpacks is helping Airdronians be prepared for the year. 

Nancy McPhee, The Executive Director and proud mom of Stephen from Stephen’s Backpack Society talked to DiscoverAirdrie about the donations and how some of the backpacks are going to Ukrainian Refugees. 

“We had packed almost 2000 backpacks and had our first big pickup. Then we got a phone call that morning saying there are 20 Ukrainian children in Calgary that need back-to-school items. So, we went down to the warehouse early and packed 20 more backpacks. Every day, there's just more and more demand. It's just unbelievable this year.” 

With such a high demand McPhee says she plans on getting more backpacks ready to donate. 

“We'll probably do another 500 to 1000. It just depends on how much we can get done. And, you know, and getting the supplies and donations in so that we can do it.” 

McPhee went on to talk about what's in the backpacks. 

“All the supplies are according to the Rockyview school division lists. They're divided into elementary school, middle school and high school.” 

So far in Stephen’s Backpack's existence, they have created over 87,000 backpacks and have re-decorated over 34 homes. 

If you are interested in creating your own backpack or donating, visit their website. 

Mcphee finished off by saying up next on their list of things to do is to start preparing for Christmas and hopefully trying to refurnish one home before the end of the year. 

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