School supplies sought for disadvantaged youth

Although it is summer, Twin Lakes Food Bank is now asking for donations of "back to school" items to help local children in need.Last year 607 students were helped and "this year our goal is to reach 700 children," said Tammy Thompson, executive director at Twin Lakes Food Bank.They have extended the deadline to accept donations until July 29 due to lack of donations."Usually we are about halfway done by now but this year we are only about a quarter done," she said.The kids will receive a new backpack, a Payless Shoe Source gift card, new school supplies, new socks, a dental kit, and a healthy bag of snacks from Raley's. Backpacks are the items most needed, but new school supplies, new socks and/or financial donations are also asked for and appreciated, said Thompson.Because of the current economy, more kids than ever are in need of the essential school supplies. She said, especially more junior high and high school kids are also in need."Our goal is to make sure that every kid in need starts off the school year on a positive note," she said. "It reaches the entire community in many ways. It's really neat."Learn more at twinlakesfoodbank.org.* * *HOW TO HELPWhat: Back to School Backpack DriveWhen: 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday or4:30-7 p.m. TuesdayWhere: Twin Lake Food Bank, 327 Montrose Drive, Folsom Online donations: TwinLakesFoodBank.org