Local mom challenges you to Fill the Ram
School Supplies by Laura Rivera-Free Use Domain-Upsplash
By: Cecilia Nasmith, Northumberland 89.7 FM News
Port Hope
Local mom (and mortgage broker) Sarah Turck is partnering with United Way Northumberland July 21 at the Port Hope Giant Tiger, challenging local shoppers to Fill The Ram she will have parked there in support of United Way's Backpack For Kids school-supply drive.
Between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m., her Dodge Ram will be there to fill with crayons, pencil crayons, pens, pencils, markers, binders, lined paper, reusable water bottles, new children's books, colouring books and backpacks – all to ensure that children across the county can start the school year prepared to succeed.
It's not just a drive, it's a family-friendly event with appearances from Thompson Motorsports race cars and a visit from the K9ine Security canine unit. And the Port Hope Panthers will cheer things on with a final-hour rally.
Since 2005, the program has supported thousands of young people. This year, it is expanding to support early literacy programs with age-appropriate readers and activity books.
“As a mom, I know how important it is for kids to feel prepared and supported,” Turck said.
“Helping children through this backpack drive isn't just about school supplies, it's about showing them that their community cares. I love being part of something that reminds families they're not alone.”
This year's goal is 850 backpacks, which will be prepared by volunteers at the traditional Backpack Packing Party at the Cobourg Lions' Centre in August.
