Charlotte Volunteers Pack Over 50,000 Backpacks for Students in Need

At the Charlotte Convention Center, volunteers packed over fifty thousand backpacks with school supplies. The massive task was completed in just three hours. Workers moved fast, their hands flying over tables stacked with supplies.

"Not every child starts at the same starting point, but they're expected to cross the finish line at the same time," said Karen Calder of Classroom Central, according to WBTV.

The Tepper Foundation paid for the supplies. Workers arrived as the sun rose, ready to sort items for children who needed them. Stacks of notebooks and pencils filled the room.

Schools will get the backpacks this week. Kids will find them waiting on their desks when class starts. These supplies will help families who struggle to buy what their children need for school.

"We're making sure they have the supplies they need to be successful in the school year," said Rory Snavely. Spencer Witherspoon, a former teacher, added his thoughts. "It's a very good feeling to be able to help the teachers, students, and CMS," he said.

Workers set up lines to speed up the packing. Each person had a job: some stacked items, others sorted them, and the rest packed bags. Music filled the air while they worked. The beat kept everyone moving.

"You've got to get in the energy of giving," said Shatoya Jackson. She danced while stuffing backpacks. The mix of work and fun kept spirits high all morning.

The quick work means every student will start school ready to learn. Michael Williams put it simply: "There's nothing greater, nothing greater than to serve others."

This marks the biggest supply drive Charlotte has seen. Students across many districts will now start school with fresh supplies, ready for a year of learning.