The Opportunity Council of Island County recently concluded the 10th annual Back To School drive for very low income and homeless school-aged children. Over 380 new backpacks with school supplies were distributed to children on North Whidbey.

Without the support of the community this would never be possible. The North Whidbey Lions Club have made it their mission to kick off this drive for the past seven years. Thank you to all of the members who stood outside and collected supplies from generous citizens who graciously shared. Thank you Mack for coordinating this event. We appreciate Wal-Mart and Office Max for allowing us the space to set up and collect supplies. Thanks also go to many outstanding community groups: Windermere Oak Harbor, Retired Teachers Sorority, United Way of Island County, Oak Harbor Lions Club, Island Thrift, Oak Harbor United Methodist, Whidbey Presbyterian and Presbyterian Women, Oak Harbor Church of Christ and Oak Harbor Christian Reformed Church.

Every year so many of you contribute to this project. Thank you to everyone who dropped off supplies and backpacks as well as monetary donations. These are hard days for many and especially for the families we serve. Having the resources to give young people a good start to school with a backpack and supplies is a testament to the heart of this community. The staff would like to say thank you and we appreciate your generosity!

Lisa Clark

Director of Island County Service Center

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