Decatur Family YMCA Hosts Annual Backpack Attack Event Aug. 3

Backpack Attack will provide 2,000 school-supply-filled backpacks to children grades K-6 in Decatur and Macon County free of charge.

     Decatur Family YMCA will host their annual Backpack Attack event on Saturday, August 3, 2024, from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. 2,000 school supply-filled backpacks will be handed out to students entering kindergarten through 6th grade. Students should be present to pick out their backpacks.
     Backpacks will be available for pickup from four locations: Decatur Family YMCA, Old King’s Orchard Community Center, John’s Hill Magnet School (Drive-Up Location), and Boys & Girls Club of Decatur.
     Decatur Family YMCA is proud to partner with local non-profits Walk It Like We Talk It, Centro for Hispanic & Immigrant Community Opportunities (CHICO), and Junior Welfare Association to distribute backpacks at these additional locations.
Danielle Diskey, Decatur Family YMCA’s Director of Development & Marketing, anticipates a busy day. “Each year, we see the community’s need for this program continue to grow. And each year we are given the opportunity to find ways to expand our program, to understand the needs of our community, and to find ways to meet those needs.” She continues, “This year, we’ve included more necessary supplies and higher quality backpacks to help ensure students are adequately equipped for the entire school year.”
     To further aid families in back-to-school preparations, the Macon County Health Department will provide school-required immunizations, lead testing, and dental screenings at their facility from 9:00 am – 1:00 pm. These are first-come first-served walk-in appointments only. Additional dates and services are available – visit maconchd.org to learn more.
     Decatur Family YMCA would like to thank the following organizations whose generous contributions ensure a successful event: ADM, Ameren Illinois, PNC Bank, and the City of Decatur.
     The Decatur Family YMCA is dedicated to building healthy, confident, connected, and secure children, adults, families, and communities. With a focus on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, the Y nurtures the potential of every youth and teen, improves Decatur & Macon County’s health and well-being, and provides opportunities to give back and support our neighbors.
     Like them on Facebook at facebook.com/decaturfamilyy or visit decaturymca.org.