901 Mohican Drive
Loveland, OH 45140
Backpack Program
The Loveland Initiative provides a wide variety of programs to underserved children and families in Loveland, Ohio. The backpack program is one of four signature programs and is funded by a Dater Foundation grant. Families pre-register for the program. Volunteer organizers develop a checklist of school supplies working with teachers. Then, they fill backpacks and youngsters stop by and personally pick them up on a designated day in August. Supplies are replenished in December.
This service is important because (1) it makes a positive impact on the lives of children and families in the community, (2) the financial burden of back-to-school expenses is relieved for families in need, and (3) students can focus on learning and not worry about having a hand-me-down bag. The program is more than just handing out paper and pencils; it’s about generating excitement and joy at the prospect of students returning to school. After the program's initial distribution, 50 additional backpacks are distributed to Loveland students who didn’t sign up but qualified for this program. The program assists over 300 students.
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Website: http://www.lovelandinitiative.org
Amount: $10,000
Date: February 2020