Thanks to this year's back-to-school Backpack Program many local Cochrane students are geared up and ready to head back to school.

This year's backpack initiative was organized by the Cochrane and Area Family Resource Network (FRN) in partnership with Staples and the local Kiwanis Club.

Family Resource Network Coordinator, Amy Farley says that thanks to a successful program, they have been able to help ease the financial strain associated with the start of the school year for several families in the Cochrane area.

"I would say that we gave out about 100 backpacks so far," explains Farley. "Staples provided the backpacks and it was really great because they used a back to school list that the teachers give to the kids and divided it into three age groups."

The Kindergarten to Grade 12 students registered in this year's program received a brand new backpack filled with the required supplies for their grade level, and they were treated to a special event at the Family Resource Network on August 19 to pick up their new gear.

"It was fantastic," says Farley. "The foodbank gave each family a bag of food and then they were able to go and do some crafts, have some snacks and for some of the families if they wanted, they could do a back-to-school photo."

For many families, the cost of ordering a school photo isn't feasible and Farley says that it was especially rewarding to be able to offer this service. She says that the smiles on the kids' faces truly said it all, and the kids had "an extra skip in their step while trying on their brand new backpacks."

Farley says that it's not too late to access this year's back-to-school Backpack Program.

"We do have more backpacks and Staples gift cards available," explains Farley. "They just need to show us their GST assessment and show that they're eligible and they can come get their backpack."

Families can still register by calling (403) 851-2265 or stop by the Family Resource Network at 127 First Ave West in Cochrane.