Cooperative Association to pass out backpacks in back-to-school program

The Wrangell Cooperative Association, once again, is helping out with the Tlingit and Haida Central Council's back to school backpack event. Tribal Administrator Esther Ashton said that the WCA partners with the central council every year for this event, which aims to provide backpacks and school supplies to native children across Southeast Alaska. Applications to receive a backpack will close on Aug. 2.

"Basically, it's for Alaska Native or American Indian," she said. "You have to reside in Wrangell, and it's for pre-k to grade 12."

Ashton said that the central council purchases all the supplies and backpacks, and puts them together in age-appropriate packages for kids. These are then sent to local tribes across Southeast who then distribute the backpacks. Last year, in Wrangell alone, over 120 backpacks were distributed. This year the WCA will be passing out backpacks on Aug. 22, according to a post on their Facebook page. Snacks will be provided during the event, too.

The WCA's office is located on Zimovia Highway, near the intersection with Wood Street. They can also be reached at (907) 874-3077 or by email at wca@gmail.com.