PEORIA, Ill. — A sure sign that school is about to start each year, is the Dream Center’s Backpack Peoria event.
The Center’s Andy King told WMBD’s “The Greg and Dan Show”, the event, now in its 21st year, is open to all students in grades K-12.
“Over 60,000 bags were given out over the last 21 years. Back in the day, Riverside Church would just go out into the neighborhoods, in fact, that was the program that launched the Dream Center,” King said.
1,600 backpacks and 500 gift cards for uniforms will be available this year for Peoria Public Schools students who need them, while they last.
Medical professionals will be on-hand to provide school physicals and dental exams.
PPS staff will supply food for those attending Backpack Peoria, and the Dream Center’s Mobile Hair Salon will give free haircuts.
Like last year, families can use the drive-through or walk-up option to receive supplies. Students do need to be present.
Backpack Peoria is being held Saturday, July 30, from 9 a.m. until noon at the Dream Center, located at 714 Hamilton Boulevard, in downtown Peoria (and across the street in the UnityPoint Health parking lot).
For more information, click HERE.
