Back to school supply drive in Carlton County combines resources

It’s almost back to school time, and folks in Carlton County are gearing up.

Volunteers spent Wednesday putting together the donated supplies.

Crimsen Hanson, a teacher, shared, “It’s so important for kids to feel like they start the year with what they need. These are just really difficult times. For a kid to come into the classroom not having what they need, I think that just makes them feel vulnerable and bad about themselves and we don’t want any kid to feel like they don’t have what they need.”

Social worker Collette Lenarz added, “I for one, I think it really reduces stressors off of families to provide all of the stuff that schools are asking for, for their students to bring.”

They are excited to see students again.

It’s a combined effort this year, between the United Way of Carlton County, the Salvation Army, churches, businesses, and community groups.

The giveaway is the Backback BBQ on Saturday in Veterans Park in Cloquet, from 11am-1pm.

You can still register for the backpacks by calling the Salvation Army at 218-879-5447 or 218-879-1693