As September nears, many families across Thames Valley are bracing for the financial strain of back-to-school expenses. To help ease that burden, the Thames Valley Education Foundation (TVEF) has once again partnered with United Way Elgin Middlesex for the 24th annual Best First Day backpack drive.
This vital initiative ensures students in the Thames Valley District School Board receive backpacks filled with essential school supplies—helping them start the year with confidence and the tools they need to succeed.
Organizers aim to fill 4,000 backpacks by the August 25, 2025, donation deadline. Last year, 4,200 were distributed.
Community members can participate in #BestFirstDay in various ways:
Supplies: New backpacks and school supplies can be dropped off at designated collection points throughout the city. A list of accepted items and drop-off locations can be found on our website – bestfirstday.ca.
Donations: Financial contributions can be made through our website at bestfirstday.ca. Every dollar goes directly toward purchasing backpacks and school supplies. Sign up by contacting Cecile Klerks: c.klerks@tvdsb.ca.
Sponsorships: We invite you to become a sponsor and support students when they go back to school. For more information, contact Cecile Klerks: c.klerks@tvdsb.ca
Written by: C. Soares