The Upshur Parish House is calling on the community to help local students head back to school with confidence through its annual Back-to-School Backpack Program, and this year, organizers are placing extra emphasis on hygiene essentials alongside traditional school supplies.
The program, a long-standing effort to provide students in Upshur County with the tools they need to start the school year prepared, is currently collecting donations of backpacks, supplies, and personal care items. Distribution will begin the week of August 11.
“It’s a program we’ve done for years, and it’s something families can count on,” said Isaac Casto, Executive Director of the Upshur Parish House. “We’re just trying to build security for families in our community.”
While the Parish House will still be distributing homework and school supplies, Casto said the team is being intentional this year about including personal hygiene items in each backpack.
“In the past, we’ve added hygiene items when we could, but this year, we’re really leaning into that as a necessary part of what students need to feel confident and cared for,” he said. “That includes items like toothbrushes, deodorant, and combs, things that help students feel clean and ready to learn.”
Donations of new items are requested, including:
- 130 Elementary Girl Backpacks
- 100 Elementary Boy Backpacks
- 75 Middle/High School Girl Backpacks
- 100 Middle/High School Boy Backpacks
- 150 packs of Index Cards
- 500 Pink Erasers
- 300 Glue Sticks
- 600 Pencil Sharpeners
- 300 Pairs of Scissors
- 350 Full-Sized Deodorants
Donations can be dropped off at the Parish House (68 College Avenue, Buckhannon) or at the Rock Cave location on Wednesdays from noon to 4 p.m. Monetary donations are also accepted online at givebutter.com/57357B.
All donated items — including backpacks — must be new, with tags.
“We do ask that everything be new. It’s important to us that these items give students a fresh start,” Casto explained.
While distribution details are still being finalized, Casto said the first day of backpack giveaways will likely include extended hours and participation from other local organizations, offering extra goodies and sharing information about community services.
Everything the Parish House does, Casto emphasized, is made possible by the generosity of the Upshur County community.
“We’re grateful we’re able to do this every year,” he said. “Everything we do comes from the compassion and support of the people around us.”
Donations must be received by July 25 to be included in this year’s distribution.
