United Way of Mahaska County is partnering with the Oskaloosa Community Schools, the Oskaloosa Business Community and our local agencies to help coordinate Operation Backpack.  This initiative is a collaboration of many groups and individuals wanting to help students be ready to start school in the Fall.  For students to receive the free backpacks and school supplies, they must qualify for the Free and Reduced Lunch Program with the Oskaloosa Community Schools. 

Once the school administration verifies these students, the community can come together to organize personal backpacks for each student according to their classroom supply list provided by the school. Operation Backpack will help ensure each student gets what their particular classroom requires for school supplies. 

BUT WE NEED YOUR HELP!  We are looking for groups and individuals to donate school supplies, money towards the school supplies, or volunteer to help sort and prepare the backpacks.  If you can help our children be ready to start learning on their first day of school, please call United Way of Mahaska County at 641-673-6043 and get involved.