Operation Backpack helps families prepare for school year

ISPT’s retail centres have once again partnered with St Vincent de Paul Society to help equip children and families with everything they need for a new school year.  

The initiative, called Operation Backpack, has been running for 15 years and helps local families who may be experiencing financial hardship. Donation hubs are set up and promoted for communities to donate school supplies, backpacks, lunchboxes, exercise books and other stationery items. These goods are distributed to families in need so their children can start the year fully prepared. 

 Rosemary Condron-Calic, National Portfolio Manager, Retail said:

“Operation Backpack is a beautiful community initiative that has helped close to 500 students prepare for a new school year. It can be a tough time for many families, particularly in our current climate, andwe’ve been blown away by the generosity of each of our retail communities. We’re thrilled to be able to support this initiative.” 

Operation Backpack was set up at 5 ISPT Centres (Wagga Wagga Marketplace, Richmond Marketplace, Southgate Shopping Centre, Central West and Barkly Square) and we received around 7,400 donations, totalling over $25,000. All donations have now been evenly distributed to families.