The Backpacks of Love campaign has met its goal.
They’ve put together 200 backpacks of essential items for the homeless in North Bay.
Officials with the Compassionate Committee for the Homeless in North Bay say the community has once again stepped up to support those in need.
The initiative started just over a month ago with several donation drop-off days held.
“As soon as the ask was made back in June, members of the North Bay community including businesses, our faith community, and individuals donated essential items and cash,” explains
Rebecca Riesen, lead organizer of the Backpacks of Love. “It was extremely humbling to see how generous everyone was.”
The Compassionate Committee for the Homeless in North Bay was created eight months ago, and started the Backpacks of Love campaign after conducting research.
“With nine churches involved, and 17 volunteers through faith, service and social justice we are addressing the urgent needs of the homeless and will engage with all levels of government to ensure that homelessness is front and centre in the political arena,” states Leah Pierce, chairperson.
Backpacks have been dropped off at several front-line organizations, including HOPE’s Heroes, the North Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre, the Gathering Place and Boots on the Ground.
The committee is now looking to get ready for a winter campaign and will apply research from the scheduled Point-in-Time count to determine the needs of the homeless in North Bay.
They expect to find out the number of backpacks and essential items needed in early fall.
Officials say the committee hopes to continue seasonal Backpacks of Love to address the ever-changing needs of the homeless.
