Backpacks needed for young victims

Austin (KXAN) - When children find themselves in shelters with their mothers as a result of family violence, something as small as a backpack full of school supplies has a way of making them feel wanted and comfortable.  The Texas Advocacy Project provides backpacks full of school supplies to children across the state, and in 2012, the need for those backpacks has been greater than ever before.

Texas Advocacy Project's Backpacks for Hope Campaign sent about 800 backpacks full of school supplies to children at shelters in 2011.  In 2012, Texas shelters have requested 1,810 backpacks -- nearly double the demand of a year ago.

"Having appropriate school supplies is just one of the many challenges faced by kids in crisis," said Heather Bellino, Director of Development and Communication for the Texas Advocacy Project.  "We hope that these backpacks provide an easier time for the children who are with their moms and are starting to live a life without fear of violence."

The nonprofit group relies on backpack donations or monetary donations to make sure children receive the Backpacks of Hope.  If you would like to contribute, please contact chood-foster@texasadvocacyproject.org.