DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) — The Decatur Family YMCA and Decatur Police Department distributed 2,000 backpacks full of school supplies during their annual Backpack Attack and Shop With a Cop program.
The pre-filled backpacks were given to Kindergarten through 6th grade students in Decatur and Macon County. The Backpack Attack took place at four locations: Decatur Family YMCA, Johns Hill Magnet School, Old King's Orchard Community Center, and the Boys & Girls Club of Decatur.
The Shop With a Cop program supplied 75 students from Decatur and Macon County with school clothes from Kohls. Organizers say this is about building positive relationships between students and police. The children are referred by Decatur Public School District #61, local schools, and organizations like Big Brothers Big Sisters, Child First Center, Growing Strong, DCFS, local churches, and officer referrals.
"Every child deserves a positive start to the school year," said Danielle Diskey, Director of Development & Marketing for Decatur Family YMCA. "Our partnership with the Decatur Police Department through Backpack Attack and Shop With a Cop allows us to extend our reach and impact more students across the community. We are committed to supporting our local youth. We are committed to supporting our local youth and providing them with the tools they need to succeed."
Detective Jason Danner, President of Decatur PB&PA Unit 39, added, "The Shop With a Cop program is about making sure these children are afforded the opportunity to start the school year off on the right foot. We are grateful for the YMCA's continued support and the opportunity to work together in making a difference in these kid's lives."
For more information about the Backpack Attack event or the Shop With a Cop program, contact ymca@decaturymca.org or pbpaunit39@gmail.com.
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