Ahead of its 17th year, Packsacs Smiles is hoping to build on a successful 2020 where the pandemic posed a new set of challenges for the organization.
Lynda Smits, a board member with Packsacs, says the pandemic saw reduced numbers of volunteers for the group that provides North Bay schoolchildren with back-to-school essentials.
“We weren’t able to do what we normally do,” she noted, saying much of the shopping had to be done online and deliveries had to be done in a socially-distanced way.
Since 2005, Packsacs hands out backpacks full of school supplies, clothing and other essential items to in-need children who are identified by their school.
Last year, with about half the volunteers and no referrals from schools, Packsacs provided 206 children with essentials, which included face masks. A normal year would see roughly 150 volunteers and about 250 backpacks given out.
Smits says the group has also received clearance from the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit to donate mittens and gloves to students, which will be done in the coming days.
As the organization looks ahead to 2021, Smits hopes the community steps up in any capacity it can.
“We can’t do this without the volunteers. We’re always looking for volunteers. Help us pack a smile and get these students in the right mind,” she said.
As a retired teacher who has seen the impact of Packsacs firsthand, Smits says the experience is special for everyone involved.
“It’s just so rewarding. I can’t even put into words the smiles you see when those kids get their backpack,” she said. “It’s a very big smile. Some of the kids are jumping up and down. I’ve been asked to be in family photographs.”
Packsacs relies on the work of volunteers and community sponsors to make up the bags, which cost roughly $150 each.
With the pandemic, Smits says Packsacs may be more important than ever this year.
To get involved with Packsacs, click here.
