Voluntary Action Center hosts annual Back to School Program with changes

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

The Voluntary Action Center started its Back to School Program on Monday, which provides school supplies to Boone County students in need.

This will be the first year the VAC will distribute backpacks filled with essential school supplies for several weeks. Instead of a one-day resource fair they have previously held, this event will be open until Aug. 30.

VAC marketing coordinator Rachel McCain is excited about the change.

"The changes that we're making actually meet the needs of the people that we serve in a better capacity, and I'm looking forward to seeing how how many we can serve," McCain said.

School supplies can rack up a high bill for parents.

"The back to school season in general can get expensive, especially if you've got multiple kids," McCain said. "So this program allows us to meet one of those needs and ensures that all Boone County kids are set up and ready to go."

Families who are eligible for the program are Boone County residents with children entering kindergarten through 12th grade. Parents must also meet the income criteria of 200% of the federal poverty guidelines.

Families who participate in the VAC program are also given a voucher to The Wardrobe, a local second-hand store that partners with VAC. Here, families are able to shop for free clothing on select days. The Wardrobe also has a deal every six months where guardians can purchase a $40 Shoe Carnival voucher for only $5.

Eligible families can visit or call the VAC office.

To support or donate to VAC, donors are encouraged to check out VAC's website or drop off non-perishable items at their food pantry.