The demand for school supplies some years can outstrip a parent’s ability to purchase or even comprehend why they need a particular amount of a particular supply. Why, for example, do they need four glue sticks? Why four? And each year it gets more expensive.

To help alleviate some of the stress of back to school, the Saskatoon Tribal Council distributes backpacks full of school supplies to children and youth from Saskatoon’s inner city neighbourhoods. The giveaway always coincides with the annual family gathering and carnival hosted at the White Buffalo Youth Lodge. And demand for the backpacks keeps on growing.

“Last year’s backpack giveaway was a huge success and that was only 500 of them,” said Saskatoon Tribal Council Chief Felix Thomas. “Hundreds of families showed up for the carnival and received these backpacks and supplies. We’re happy we can support more families this year.”

People were entertained by bouncy houses, fun games and a visit from the STC Mascot, Journey. Journey had a very busy day high fiving kids who stood almost two and a half hours in line to receive their backpacks. This year over 1000 were given away to anyone who came regardless of their race or financial situation.

Related: STC, PotashCorp equip kids for start of new school year

The giveaway was made possible by a $25,000 donation from PotashCorp. “These backpacks and school supplies help kids feel good about going back to school,” said Leanne Bellegarde, Director Diversity and Inclusion for PotashCorp. “That’s important because there are so many opportunities available to young people who are committed to sticking with school and seeing where it can take them.”