Backpacks for Back to School

August means back-to-school shopping, and Reston Interfaith is doing its part to make sure underprivileged kids have what they need.

Area nonprofit Reston Interfaith is in the midst of its annual back-to-school drive, collecting backpacks and other necessities to distribute to Fairfax County Public School students.

Reston Interfaith is seeking new backpacks for children in K-12. The backpacks must not have wheels or corporate logos, says Reston Interfaith spokeswoman Abby Kimble.

"The drive will go through Aug. 14," she says. "Last year, we collected about 2,000 backpacks."

Reston Interfaith partners with another nonprofit, Kids R First, which donates school supplies. Many local businesses have also encouraged employees and customers to make donations.

However, Reston Interfaith is also asking for donations of $10 gift cards to Payless shoes and The Hair Cuttery.

"The gift card donation request is new this year,"  Kimble said. "The Reston Interfaith case workers thought it would be nice for children that are involved in the Reston Interfaith programs to have new shoes, a fresh hair cut, and  a new backpack when they start their new school year. That is why we are collecting gift cards from Hair Cuttery and Payless shoe stores."

Gift cards and backpacks are distributed by teachers to students who qualify, usually by being eligible for free or reduced lunch.

If you would like to donate a backpack or a gift card, look for drop-off boxes at most Reston Interfaith houses of worship. Donations can also be delivered to Reston Interfaith's main office, 11150 Sunset Hills Road, Suite, 210, Reston VA 20190.