Although kids may not want to think about it, the first day of school is coming up soon. 

That’s all Hays resident Lois Magie is thinking about this summer.

Magie is the Backpacks For Kids program coordinator at First Call for Help.

For more than nine years, the organization has provided new backpacks — full of school supplies and personal hygiene products — for USD 489 students ranging from preschool to high school.

Magie said the organization is preparing to provide at least 650 backpacks — up from the 588 backpacks handed out last year.

“I think the program is very important,” Magie said. “Kids need a chance to get some stuff they really need and apply towards school. And, with the cost of schooling going up, there are more parents who will be having trouble making ends meet.”

She said the organization can only accept new backpacks and are running low on backpacks for high school-age students, in particular.

School supplies, personal hygiene items and new backpacks can be donated through Friday, July 18, at WalMart, Walgreens and Dollar General stores in Hays.

The filled backpacks will be distributed to applicants August 7, 7 a.m.-6 p.m., at the Hadley Center, first floor.