Maple Valley Food Bank and Emergency Services is requesting new school supply donations by Aug. 22 to help local children in need start the school year prepared to learn.

Each summer they fill new backpacks with new, grade-level appropriate supplies for preregistered children, grades K – 12.

Over 600 requests for supply packs are expected this year from families in Covington, Hobart, Maple Valley, Ravensdale and within Tahoma School District boundaries.

See www.maplevalleyfoodbank.org for needed supplies and convenient collection sites around the community.

Supply drives are also being sponsored by KinderCare of Covington and Maple Valley, La Petite Academy, Wilderness Village Apartments and a number of area churches.

Monetary donations are always welcome to support the bulk purchase of needed supplies.

Donate on their secure website, mail to P O Box 322, Maple Valley, WA 98038, or get Backpack Bucks at City Perk Coffee, El Caporal, Surfrider Coffee Co. or Village Coffee.

Registration for School Supply Backpacks will continue through Aug. 23 at the food bank, located at 21415 Maple Valley Hwy during food bank hours.