Provides school supplies to school-age children who live at or below the poverty line. Supports families who cannot afford new school supplies.

2024 Program

Jun 24, 2024 to 8:30 am, Aug 16 2024, individuals can dial 2-1-1 on their phone to apply for the Backpack Program. 2-1-1 call centre staff will complete the intake application process. After 8:30 am, Aug 16, 2024, contact United Way directly.

For large agency requests:  www.backpackorder.ca

Once backpacks are available, the United Way will contact the parent and co-ordinate pick up in Owen Sound or at a depot in their community. Requests after Aug 16 may not reach a depot and the parent may need to come to Owen Sound to pick up.

Families in Owen Sound will be able to pick up their backpacks at the United Way of Bruce Grey office starting August 14th during regular business hours.

Starting August 5th for families outside of Owen Sound, pick-up locations and times can be found here.

Starting June 24th registrations for the Backpack Program for 2024 will start. 

Donations of backpacks and school supplies are accepted during office hours year-round. Financial donations are accepted in person or online

2-1-1 Program Intake hours: Mon-Sun 24 hours
Registration dates: Jun 24, 2024 to 8:30 am, Aug 16, 2024 - For requests after this date, call United Way directly.
United Way office hours: Mon-Thu 8:30 am-4:30 pm, Fri 8:30 am-3:30 pm

Pickup time and dates: To be announced

• Does not provide for children in day care or nursery school.
• Will provide for college or university students, IF they have siblings in elementary or high school that are accessing the backpack program.

Jun 24, 2024 to 8:30 am, Aug 16, 2024 - dial 2-1-1. Callers will be asked to provide their name, telephone number and the ages of the children in their family.
After 8:30 am, Aug 16, 2024, phone United Way of Bruce Grey at 519-376-1560.