Families with extra backpacks invited to kokua keiki

The Hawaii Police Department invites the community to join in a backpack drive to assist less-fortunate children in these hard economic times. All police stations around the island will double as drop-off points for those interested in helping children in need. Backpacks may be dropped off until Aug. 31.

Backpacks have been identified as the most requested non-food item for charities in Hawaii. The donated backpacks will be distributed to children at women’s shelters, homeless shelters and transitional housing facilities around the Big Island.

This is the fourth consecutive year the Police Department has worked in partnership with HOPE Services Hawaii and From Kids For Kids in the collection and distribution of these items.

Hope Services Hawaii provides a continuum of homeless and transitional programs from outreach to emergency shelters, including permanent supportive housing placements.

From Kids For Kids was founded in 2006 by Big Island resident Nani Welch-Keliihoomalu, then 10, who was responsible for distributing backpacks containing books, clothing, art and school supplies.

Police Chief Harry Kubojiri offers police stations as drop-off points to make it convenient for anyone who wishes to donate backpacks for the project.

“I again ask those of you who have backpacks your child is no longer using to consider donating them to this worthy cause,” Kubojiri said. “In past years your generosity has proven that the aloha spirit is alive and well when it comes to opening our hearts and lending a helping hand.”