The Waterloo Regional Police Service is once again inviting the community to participate in its eighth annual Backpack Challenge.

The Backpack Challenge encourages businesses and residents to purchase new backpacks, lunch bags, school supplies, or gift cards to be donated to children and families in need throughout Waterloo Region.

Over the past seven years, more than 22,500 backpacks have been collected, along with thousands of dollars in gift cards and school supplies. Last year, all the items were donated directly to families, as well as through more than 20 child and youth organizations throughout Waterloo Region, to ensure they have an exciting back-to-school experience and are prepared for the year ahead.

“The generosity of the community never fails to inspire us,” said Mark Crowell, Chief of Police. “By working together, we can ensure that every child in Waterloo Region starts the school year with the tools they need to succeed.”

The Backpack Challenge runs until August 12, 2025. All donations will be delivered to community organizations throughout Waterloo Region in the following weeks.

Donations can be dropped off at any WRPS division:

• Headquarters, 200 Maple Grove Road, Cambridge

• North Division, 45 Columbia Street East, Waterloo

• Central Division, 200 Frederick Street, Kitchener

• South Division, 176 Hespeler Road, Cambridge

More information about registering to receive a backpack will be available on August 1, 2025.

For more information about the Backpack Challenge, visit www.wrps.ca/backpacks.

Media Inquiries:
Waterloo Regional Police Service
Public Information Unit 
519-570-9777 (WRPS) ext. 8188
publicinfo@wrps.on.ca   

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