School supplies

Participants are asked to fill backpacks with the following:

• (3) folders

• Box of No. 2 pencils

• Washable markers

• (2) spiral notebooks

• (2) composition books

• Pens

• Erasers

• Blunt end scissors

• Glue sticks

• Crayons

• Ruler

• Small package of tissues

• Construction paper

Cornell's Backpack Program, which supplies backpacks filled with basic school supplies to area children in need, kindergarten through sixth grade, has begun to accept donations for the start of school this fall. For many children, a new backpack is the only thing they will have that is new for their school year.

Those interested in participating are asked to buy a backpack, fill it with school supplies and deliver it to Maureen Brull, senior consultant of education and voluntary plans, Benefit Services, 130 Day Hall, anytime before the end of August. Include your name and email for inclusion on the donor list.

"With all of the sales that occur between the end and beginning of school, the total cost of a new backpack and its supplies usually costs about $20," said Brull. The Backpack Program also accepts monetary donations. Checks can be made out to "The Elves" and sent to Brull.

Brull said that backpacks will be evenly distributed among the schools on the program's list. Donors can direct their backpack to any participating school, should they desire. The list of schools and contacts is on the program's website at http://www.elves.cornell.edu.

Brull added that she welcomes donations from anyone -- not just Cornell employees.

The Backpack Program began in 2007, with 284 backpacks provided to 12 area schools. In fall 2011, 539 backpacks were sent to 19 area schools.

"The number of those who need help each year seems to be increasing, and we continue to hope that we will be able to keep up with the challenge of providing these children with such a basic need," said Brull.

Questions can be directed to Brull at 607-255-7509, email mpb8@cornell.edu.