Now through Aug. 15, new members can join the Y for a $0 joining fee when they donate a new backpack. The Jerry Long Family YMCA is collecting backpacks and school supplies to help students start the school year ready to learn. All supplies will be distributed through to Southwest, Ward, Clemmons and Morgan elementary schools.

“You can help a child have a better chance for success when you donate a new backpack,” said Rosemary Suess, vice president of operations for the Jerry Long Family YMCA. “Not every child has what he or she needs on the first day of school, but when a student is ready with the appropriate school supplies, they are able to focus on learning.”

Stop by your local Y to drop off a new, unused backpack. For potential members interested in joining the Y, the joining fee is $0 with a backpack donation through Aug. 15. Donated backpacks must be new and not used.

Members of the YMCA of Northwest North Carolina can access any location, as well as YMCAs across the country as part of nationwide Y membership, as well as the Gateway YWCA in Winston-Salem. Members belong to the branch they use the most frequently but can visit other facilities as part of their membership. Details about the program can be found on the YMCA’s website at ymcanwnc.org/MyYisEveryY.

The Y brings friends and neighbors together over shared interests in developing the potential of kids, improving individual health and well-being, and giving back and supporting our community. Membership at the Y provides access to comprehensive wellness and aquatics facilities, group exercise classes, savings on programs such as boot camps, summer camp, youth and adult sports, swim lessons and much more. The YMCA of Northwest North Carolina offers financial assistance and never turns anyone away due to the inability to pay. Learn more at jerrylongymca.org or call 336 712 2000.