EPISD to hold backpack drive Saturday

The El Paso Independent School District (EPISD) is holding a backpack drive on Saturday.

The drive is organized by EPISD teachers in the Northeast Youth Stride for Success Foundation.

The program gave about 3,000 school-supply bags last year to students at Andress and Irvin high schools.The program is expanding this year to Chapin and Austin high schools

“It is incredible how it gets bigger every year,” said teacher Ricky Ramirez, who began the foundation five years ago with coach Andrew Macias. “It would not be possible without all the help of the community. It touches my heart to see everyone come together to make sure these kids have the necessary tools to pursue their educational career.”

The backpack drive is scheduled from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday at Kmart 9484 Dyer. Online donations can be made at www.gofundme.com/2eamfvw.