Backpack giveaways in the Coachella Valley

The countdown is on until kids go back to school. The average K-12 parent will spend hundreds of dollars on school supplies. All Palm Springs Unified schools will kick off the new school year August 13, which means the back to school costs will come even sooner.

“Four kids, it’s so hard once that need starts to get school supplies,” said parent Sheila Ortega.

Sword of the Lord Ministries Community Church will host its 3rd Annual Backpack & School Supplies Giveaway located at 72055 Corporate Way in Thousand Palms. The church plans to give out 500 backpacks filled with supplies on August 8 at 10 a.m. Families can enjoy a free barbeque, children can receive a free eye screening provided by Walmart and pick out clothing if needed. First come, first served.

“That is definitely why we moved it up. We want to make sure they have everything they need when it’s time,” said event coordinator Dorothy Ortega.

The church is still in need of supplies for children grades K-12. If you’d like to donate here is a Full list of school supplies needed

Donations can be dropped off at Sword of the Lord Ministries or The Gymnastics Academy on Corporate Way in Thousand Palms. Supplies can also be dropped off at KESQ News Channel 3 & CBS Local 2 at 31276 Dunham Way in Thousand Palms.

“If you want to go out and in pick up paper, we’re in serious need of binders, pens, erasers, everything a child will need for school we need them,” said Ortega. “We just found out elementary schools are going to need ear buds. We didn’t know that so we have none.”

For more information contact Sword of the Lord Ministries at 760-343-3050 or visit www.swordofthelordministries.org

The Coachella Valley Rescue Mission in Indio will host its annual Backpack Bonanza August 22 at 8 a.m. Visit CVRM.org to find out how you can support the cause.