Salvation Army distributing backpacks and school supplies in Rapid City and Spearfish

RAPID CITY, S.D. — The Salvation Army is working to help kids start the school year right.

Monday and Tuesday, they are distributing backpacks with school supplies. This is made possible through supply drives and other donations.

Each backpack comes with notebooks, folders, pencils and other essential items.

Last year, the Salvation Army was able to distribute 400 backpacks to students in need, and this year they’re prepared to repeat that performance.

“Whatever that we can do to help wherever they have need, you know to help the kids get back in school and feel like they’re prepared which will help them feel comfortable and ready to start school,” said Major Vangie O’Neil of the Salvation Army Rapid City, “It’s just an important thing for us.”

Those in need of supplies for their student can pick-up a backpack Tuesday, August 24, from 9:00 a.m. until noon, and again from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at both the Rapid City and Spearfish Salvation Army locations.