Back to School BBQ in Cloquet with giving over 800 backpacks

Shopping for school supplies can be pretty expensive for families. However, the United Way and Salvation Army of Carlton County are looking to help with a Back to School BBQ.

Families were able to pre-register for a school backpack, but also enjoy a free meal, while kids could play games and have face paint. United Way of Carlton County Executive Director Sarah Buhs said that kids could learn also how to wear a backpack properly to help with the weight of school supplies.

“They don’t just get the backpacks, they are stuffed with school supplies,” Buhs said. “We tried really hard to take the list at kids only see for schools on my list and put as many things as we can in there. And this year we were able to put most school supplies that were on the list.”

Sue Butkiewizc, the Social Service Coordinator with the Salvation Army in Carlton County said that they hope to give away over 1,000 backpacks next year. “We’ve had a lot more people this year sign up. Last year we had like 424, so this year it’s probably double.” Butkiewizc said.

For more information about the Back to School BBQ you can look here. For other stories happening in Cloquet you can look here.