Decatur Family YMCA gives away thousands of backpacks at annual Backpack Attack event

DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) — Kids and parents lined up Saturday morning for the Decatur Family YMCA's annual Backpack Attack event — and the community showed up in full force.

The organization gave away thousands of backpacks filled with school supplies to families across Decatur, helping kids head back to school prepared and ready to learn.

Director of Development Shyler Kraus said the event offered much more than just school supplies.

"They grab their bags and then check out our community partners and sponsors who have resource tables set up in our youth gym," Kraus said. "So families can get the full picture of everything that goes into making this event happen."

New this year — the YMCA added hygiene kits with personal care essentials for older students.

"We expanded to include our tweens and teenagers — they get drawstring backpacks with wellness kits inside," said Kraus. "Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner — everything you need to feel confident and start your school year with dignity."

Community member Katlynn Doran said the event is not only important for kids heading back to school, but it also provides critical support for families during difficult times.

"Times are really rough financially for a lot of families right now," Doran said. "With the school year approaching and a lot of SNAP benefits getting cut, having the community come together like this and bring everybody together regardless of age, that helps everybody."

For Kraus, the best part of the event speaks for itself.

"Seeing all the kids come in and pick out their favorite color backpacks — I love it honestly," Kraus said.

"They are psyched. They love it. It makes them feel included, being able to make that choice of the colors and everything," Doran said.