Amity Health Narrogin’s back-to-school initiative donates 55 schoolbags with supplies to help students in need

A Wheatbelt town’s annual back-to-school initiative has donated the highest number of bags to date for students in need.

Amity Health Narrogin has put together 55 school bags from local businesses’ donations as part of its back to school bag initiative.

The bags will be delivered to school offices for the first day of term and distributed by staff to students in need.

All 55 schoolbags include a lunch box, pencil case, water bottle, coloured and lead pencils, scissors, highlighters and erasers.

Amity Health Narrogin program co-ordinator Emmalee Gardner said the annual initiative aimed to provide educational equipment and supplies to Narrogin families in need of assistance.

“Having access to these resources enables students to start the year in a positive way, without feeling disadvantaged by not having the basics to help them learn,” Ms Gardner said.

“Hannah (Ms Garner’s colleague) and I feel amazing knowing that this year we have managed to put together 55 school bags — the highest amount to date.

“We hope to continue to grow this initiative to be able to support all children in need.

“Every little bit helps, particularly at the start of a new school year. Times are tough for families right now, and it means some children are missing out.

“This is a great way to make a difference.”

Local businesses that donated include Narrogin Betta Home Living, Thing-a-me-bobs, SportsPower Narrogin, Narrogin Toyota, and Narrogin Community Pharmacy.

Amity Health chief executive Pam Bubrzycki said families should not be forced to go without as they battled the cost-of-living crisis.

“We know the cost-of-living crisis is hitting families hard. We’re seeing an increasing number of families living with housing insecurity or not having a home at all,” Ms Bubrzycki said.

“Families should not have to make the choice between having a roof over their head and equipping their children for what are the most important years of their lives.

“This year, our team has put together 55 school bags — the highest number so far.

“We hope to continue to grow this initiative and extend our sincere thanks to the generosity of the Narrogin business community.”

Community businesses are welcome to donate to the project by contacting Amity Health via email on query@amityhealth.com.au.