FARGO -- The United Way of Cass Clay's annual "Backpack Pickup" event is underway at the Fargodome, where nearly 6,500 backpacks filled with school supplies are being given out to families in need.
The giveaway runs through Friday, Aug. 9, and marks the largest collection of supplies the organization has ever distributed.
If families missed Wednesday's distribution, no registration is required. Several dozen volunteers will be on hand to help guide people through the process during pickup hours at 4:30 p.m. Thursday and 11:30 a.m. Friday in the west parking lot of the Fargodome.
"Asking for help is really hard, and we want to make this a really awesome experience for them and joyful for their kids," said Tiffany McShane, senior director of community engagement with United Way. "So we've had a lot of great attitudes from all the families coming through, and we're just really happy to provide that resource for them."
A form of identification is required for each child receiving supplies. The United Way says providing this kind of support can help kids and families start the school year with confidence.