Since 2012, Rainbow's End Youth Services (REYS) has been giving away backpacks filled with school supplies to students in grades one through 12. To prepare for this year's giveaway in August, the center's staff members have refocused their efforts.

"People have wanted to know how to help with our backpack distribution, and they've donated so many school supplies, which we really appreciate," said Cristina Paden, executive director of REYS. "We want to make sure every student gets the same thing, and we realized, 'What is our biggest need? We need the backpacks themselves.'"

To reach its goal of providing plenty of backpacks, REYS is holding the Summer Sprint to 600, a backpack donation competition. "We want a lot of variety for the students to choose from and not have them come in and see 200 of the same backpack, because that's discouraging to kids," Paden explained. "We're inviting area groups, churches, organizations, businesses and families to come together to purchase and donate new backpacks for our distribution."

The organization's goal is to collect 600 backpacks, since that's the average number that REYS gives away each year. Although the official distribution dates are in August, REYS supports local students year-round. "We have a great relationship with the local school social workers, so if a request comes through for a backpack during the school year, the answer is always 'yes,'" Paden remarked.

The team that collects the most backpacks will receive special recognition, she said, encouraging everyone to help with the effort. "The heartbeat of the backpack distribution at REYS is we want to see every student flourish," Paden commented. "One piece is helping them be ready for the academic school year ahead, and being prepared with a backpack and school supplies makes a big difference in how the school year goes for them."

REYS exists with a mission to support students in Christian love through after-school programs, academic assistance, music instruction and more. The Summer Sprint to 600 is an invitation for the community to be a part of that mission, Paden stated. "We want to invite community members to walk alongside the students, and one way they can do this is by providing backpacks," she said. "It's an easy way to help."

Backpacks may be dropped off at REYS, 105 Fairview St., Mount Joy, on Mondays through Fridays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The deadline for donations is Friday, July 29. For more information on the Summer Sprint to 600, visit https://reys.org.