The Salvation Army's annual school backpack program is in full swing.

Lieutenant Renee Milkman explains the purpose of the program.

"So the school backpack program is an annual program that helps supplement parents with supplies for school for their children."

Lieutenant Milkman says the program is going quite well and a lot of appointments have already been filled and a number of donations have been received.

In terms of the overall goal of the program, Lieutenant Milkman says it's about making sure kids have the best start.

"It's to help provide kids with the basics, to help give them their best start for school. We know that when the school year starts well it's better for kids and families. So we want to make sure we are able to give kids the best start of the school year that we can."

 Due to COVID-19 their pick up schedule has changed from the usual 1 day to 3 half days in order to space out appointments

Those still wishing to donate can drop up a backpack of school supplies to the Salvation Army