United Way Hastings & Prince Edward extends registrations for 2026 Backpacks for Success Program

Families now have until July 21st to register for backpacks filled with school supplies. For many families, summer feels like it has just begun.

Families now have until July 21st to register for backpacks filled with school supplies. For many families, summer feels like it has just begun. Before long, however, the cost of preparing children for a new school year will be top of mind.

To help ease that burden, United Way Hastings & Prince Edward has extended registration for its Backpacks for Success program until Tuesday, July 21, giving more local families the opportunity to access a new backpack filled with essential school supplies before September. Last year, more than 1200 local students received backpacks. The program has helped thousands of students across Hastings and Prince Edward Counties start the school year with confidence.

“A new backpack may seem small, but for many children it represents a fresh start, confidence, and the chance to begin the school year feeling like everyone else in their class” says Kaitlyn Lalonde, Director of Community Impact. Each backpack is packed with age-appropriate supplies for students from Kindergarten through Grade 12, ensuring children arrive on the first day of school ready to learn while helping families manage rising back-to-school costs. “We know summer is busy, and we also know many families are juggling competing financial priorities.

Extending registration gives more parents and caregivers the opportunity to access the program if they need it.” Families can register online at www.unitedwayhpe.ca/backpacks until Tuesday, July 21, while supplies last. Backpacks are available for $12 per child, thanks to the generous support of local donors, the presenting sponsor Lange & Fetter Motors, and volunteers.

Families who require assistance with registration are encouraged to contact United Way Hastings & Prince Edward at 613-962-9531. For more information, to register, or to get involved, please visit www.unitedwayhpe.ca/backpacks. About United Way Hastings & Prince Edward United Way Hastings & Prince Edward funds 39 agencies and 43 programs, and collaborates with local organizations, the business community, health sector and individuals to increase the capacity of our community to respond to human service needs.

We support 1 in 3 people in our local community. To learn more visit www.unitedwayhpe.ca