BP: Bi-CAP backpacks help take a bite out of parents' back-to-school expenses

BEMIDJI—Finding the money for back-to-school supplies can be tough for some families in Beltrami and Cass counties, where an estimated 15 percent of residents live in poverty.

That's one reason Bemidji's Bi-County Community Action Programs office gives away hundreds of backpacks and school supplies as each school year approaches. This year, The Salvation Army spent about $10,000 on more than 600 backpacks filled with notebooks, pencils, art supplies and more for area students.

http://www.bemidjipioneer.com/news/education/4489274-packing-school-bi-cap-backpacks-help-take-bite-out-parents-back-school