Double the Number of Backpacks Were Distributed to Families in Need This Year
Captains Chuck and Dana Cook have been on the job just one month, but already they are rolling up their sleeves and getting to work. The couple, who transferred from Missouri to Council Bluffs in June, staffed the Back to School Drive-Thru Backpack Distribution in the sweltering humidity along with several volunteers on Friday, August 14.
The Salvation Army of Council Bluffs is one of four agencies that collaborate as part of the Charles E. Lakin Human Services Campus, which also includes the Boys & Girls Club of Council Bluffs, Heartland Family Services and MICAH House. All four agencies pitched in to make this year’s unique drive-thru distribution a success.
The Cooks expect to hand out nearly double the number of backpacks and school supplies this year – more than 800, up from 452 in 2019.
“It’s an unusual year, and that’s driven the increased need,” said Capt. Chuck. “We are pretty fortunate. When you see you’ll need 800 backpacks, it makes you nervous, but God is always good. He always knows what we need, and we just pass it on.”
The Cooks are especially grateful to the many Council Bluffs residents, foundations and non-profit organizations that have donated funds or school supplies to help meet this year’s increased need.
“Kids need something to be normal right now,” said Capt. Chuck. “If we can give out some supplies, maybe it will help them feel a little bit better about the situation, because they’re scared too.”