Some families in south Phoenix may not have the money to buy everything their kids need for school this year, but the Maricopa County NAACP Youth Council is helping.

On Saturday the council sponsored its third annual back to school, stay in school back pack drive to help those families in need.

With the help of local businesses, corporations, community organizations, and individuals they were able to help prepare children who are from low-income families to return to school with pride, confidence, and a backpack full of supplies.

For the 2010-11 school year, they filled more than 250 backpacks with all kinds of age-appropriate school supplies, which is twice the amount distributed in 2009.

Students and parents also received health and wellness information provided by the JW Robinson United Black Firefighters, Health Choice Arizona, Academy of Excellence Charter School, Shellie’s Early Start, Center for African American Health Arizona and the Worthy Institute.

The BTS/SIS program consists of four main components: (1) the annual Back to School Rallies that encourage communities to join their local NAACP branch in motivating students about going back to school, (2) Academic Enrichment Programs that provide students with extra academic support, (3) Parent/Family Workshops that work to improve parents involvement in their child's education as well as improve their own educational and technological abilities, and (4) the Reducing Absenteeism and Dropout Campaign that recognizes improvements in student behavior and attendance.

Organizers thank everyone who helped make this year’s back to school, stay in school event a huge success.

For more information on NAACP Youth Council activities call 602-252-4064.