Fill The Backpacks: Drive In Worcester Supports Local Students

WORCESTER, MA — With the first day of school in Worcester Monday, local community groups are seeking donations to prepare students for a successful school year.

Several community groups, including Worcester Education Justice Alliance and Racism Free Worcester Public Schools, are seeking backpacks for Worcester students. The groups will then fill backpacks and distribute them Saturday at an event at Coes Park from 2 to 4 p.m.

"So please, if you can…help us brighten a young scholar’s day, and set them on the right course for their upcoming educational year! Backpacks and supplies are a basic, and something far too many Worcester families still can’t afford," organizers Moira Coakley and Nelly Medina said in a Facebook post about the event.

The organizers have created an Amazon wishlist with different backpacks in high demand this school year.

With Worcester students returning to school buildings Monday, they will also be among the first to be able to use regular backpacks in a long time. For years, Worcester students were restricted to using either mesh or clear backpacks — or leaving books and materials in their locker. The Worcester School Committee did away with that policy in a 5-1 vote earlier this month.