As students get ready for another year of school, they begin their back-to-school shopping. Markers, pencils, folders and backpacks are advertised in every store flyer.
Some students, however, are not able to get a new backpack and supplies for school and one local student decided to help.
Allyson Kowalk, a Clarkston High School senior, conducted a backpack drive at the end of 2003-2004 school year called ‘Operation: Backpack Drive.? Kowalk worked with Clarkston Community Schools and collected 140 backpacks.
Most of the backpacks were used but in good condition while others were brand new.
‘My goal was to get 50 backpacks, so when I collected them from the boxes and started counting, I was thrilled,? Kowalk said.
Once the backpacks were collected, Kowalk worked on cleaning and reconditioning the backpacks over the summer. With the help of Stewart’s Menswear, assisting with some of the repairs, Kowalk was able to refurbish and donate the backpacks to Lighthouse of Clarkston for their back-to-school program.
Kowalk said she was glad to have helped out and believes that giving back to the community helps build character.
‘I realize the importance of being appreciative for what I have,? Kowalk said. ‘I wanted to help other local kids get their year off to a good start.?
Kowalk sent a special ‘thank you? to all the participating Clarkston schools and to Stewart’s Menswear.
‘You helped make Operation: Backpack Drive a big success.?