The coronavirus pandemic continues to force local institutions to adjust their plans for a virtual era.
Sacred Heart Community Service, based in San Jose, is adapting their annual ‘Pack A Back’ program accordingly.
Online registration kicked off Monday, with parents registering for an appointment to pick out a new backpack and school supplies for their children.
The organization is hoping to serve approximately 3,800 students this year, 500 more than last year.
“When coronavirus shut down nearly everything in March, Sacred Heart had to redesign all of our programs to ensure health and safety while remaining open for our most vulnerable neighbors,” the organization said.
In past years, more than 2,000 volunteers have gathered to pack and distribute the backpacks in a single day. That effort moved online this year, and the organization has moved to four distribution days instead of one.
Distribution dates are set for August 7, 10, 11, and 12.
Sacred Heart is also continuing its ‘Teacher Kit’ program, supporting 300 teachers in low-income schools. This year’s teacher kits will include hand sanitizer and other classroom supplies.
To register for a slot or see more information, click here.