WRPS’s ninth annual Backpack Challenge is now underway
Posted Jul 6, 2026 01:12:59 PM.
Last Updated Jul 6, 2026 01:13:07 PM.
For the ninth time in it’s history, the Waterloo Region Police Service (WRPS) is set to host their annual Backpack Challenge.
Their goal is to encourage others across the region to donate school supplies, like backpacks, lunch bags, and gift cards, so that they can be shared with local families and students.
Throughout the eight years of hosting this challenge, the WRPS say its managed to donate more than 28,000 backpacks and thousands in gift cards.
“The success of the Backpack Challenge is made possible by the incredible generosity of residents, businesses, and community partners,” said Mark Crowell, Chief of Police. “Together, we can help ensure students across Waterloo Region are ready for a positive start to the school year this Fall.”
You will have until Aug. 17 to donate, and you can drop off any items at the following locations:
- Headquarters, 200 Maple Grove Rd., Cambridge
- North Division, 45 Columbia St. E., Waterloo
- Central Division, 200 Frederick St., Kitchener
- South Division, 176 Hespeler Rd., Cambridge
More information about registering to receive a backpack will be available in early August.
For more information about the Backpack Challenge, visit www.wrps.ca/backpacks.
Businesses, organizations, sports teams, and other groups come together to gather and drop off donations.Over the past seven years, close to 23,000 backpacks have been collected.
The initiative is becoming more vital than ever before, previously said by the Director of Corporate Affairs with WRPS, Cherri Greeno, as she said they continue to see more and more families asking for a helping hand.
“The need seems to grow every year. It is a hardship. Anyone who has children can attest to the fact that when you go back to school shopping, it can get pretty pricey,” explained Greeno.
