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New backpacks for Grand Rapids foster kids

Posted at 11:44 PM, Sep 04, 2016
and last updated 2016-09-04 23:49:54-04

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – A new school year, giving kids all across West Michigan a fresh start. And getting the right start means having the right supplies. To help foster care children in need, the Samaritas of Grand Rapids is stepping up in a big way.

They are giving out new backpacks, each stuffed with school supplies. The senior citizens at the Samaritas retirement center collected and filled more than 60 bags for students.

“I love it and it’s a rock star back pack, and I always wanted to be a princess!” said Alonna James, a child who received a backpack.

The backpacks are stuffed with pencils, markers, notepads, and even a free pass to a gym.

“I’m really excited about my backpack, because most of the bags I get really don’t have that much stuff in it," said Angelique Gibson, who loves her purple bag.

Angelique's mother, Angela Gibson, says the backpacks are a gift that keep on giving.

“It’s actually very helpful for them all to have school supplies and also help me out. Financially I don’t have to worry about that anymore. Knowing that they have that right now is just a wonderful thing,” Angela said.