Some people lead with heart, and when they do, others follow.

This Monday, July 21, local Sherwood mortgage agent, mom, and proud community cheerleader Sarah Turck is teaming up with United Way Northumberland to host a full-day donation drive for Backpacks for Kids. Her mission? To make sure every child starts the school year feeling confident, prepared, and like they belong.

From 11am to 6pm at Giant Tiger in Port Hope, the parking lot will be buzzing with generosity — and horsepower. Expect high-energy moments with two race cars from Thompson Motors, a visit from the K-9 Unit from K9ine Security, and a final-hour push with the Port Hope Panthers from 5 to 6pm.

The goal: fill the truck — and fill backpacks — with school supplies for local children and youth from JK to Grade 12. This year, United Way is assembling 850 new backpacks for families who are struggling financially, living with low income, or precariously housed. For the children receiving them, these backpacks are more than supplies — they are tools for dignity and belonging on the first day of school.

We’re collecting:

• Pens, pencils, erasers, markers, crayons
• Rulers and math supplies
• Early readers, flashcards, and new “learn to read” books
• Any age-appropriate school supplies for students aged 4 to 17
• New backpacks

Whether you drop off supplies, swing by to say hi, or bring the kids to check out the race cars, your support matters.

Let’s help kids walk into school feeling ready, and seen.