EAU CLAIRE, Wis. (WEAU) – For families planning for back to school, gear is shifting into high gear as We Care Eau Claire hosts its fifth annual back to school event.

The Eau Claire School District, local churches and community members have collaborated for today’s event. Families have been lined up outside since noon, waiting to get the perfect picks for their children.

The organization provided school supplies and asked community members to provide new, high-quality backpacks for children of all grades.

They have over 200 volunteers to help set up backpack and supply areas for each grade level.

The children also had the opportunity to have some fun outdoors before school started.

“I just love seeing groups working together. It’s not often that you see school districts and churches working together to help families. And it’s wonderful that this community is stepping up to do this. Whether you have money or you’re in need, hey, we’re all on board, we want to help you,” said Jordan Van Proosdy.

Through last year’s event, 1,205 students received school supplies and backpacks.

Van Proosdy is fulfilling his mission to support and encourage families in Eau Claire and looks forward to the coming years as the event continues to grow.

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