Backpacks and supplies needed

The 2026-2027 drive for new backpacks and school supplies for students in need is under way. More than 500 students in grades K-8 qualify for free backpacks and supplies under federal guidelines for free and reduced lunch. Items can be dropped off at Incredible Bank and Walgreens. Used items cannot be accepted for this project.
New supplies most needed this year are the larger backpacks themselves, black chisel tip dry erase markers, wide and thin washable markers in classic colors, paper and plastic folders, pencil top erasers, blue and pink pencil boxes, sharpened pencils, and wide-lined notebooks in green, red, purple, and blue. Supply donations are being accepted through Thursday, Aug. 14, 2026.
Distribution is set for Saturday, Aug. 15, from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in the Prairie River Middle School cafeteria by door 14. Eligible families will receive more information in the mail. Students will be able to select their backpack and a few other items. Basic supplies like pencils, etc., will be pre-packaged for quick pick-up.
Tax-deductible donations are needed and can be accepted at any time. Financial contributions may be mailed to: MFTHCI-Backpacks, P.O. Box 793, Merrill WI 54452.
Project sponsors are Merrill Forward Together Healthy Community Initiative (MFTHCI), Children’s Wisconsin, Merrill Community Foundation, and the Optimists. For more information, contact Jana at 715.539.5441.