Staff Report
BRANT NEWS

Brantford Kia and New City Church have teamed up to help underprivileged students have a happy back-to-school this September.

The New City Church Backpack Blitz provides students with a new backpack filled with grade-appropriate school supplies. Kia has teamed up with Al’s Shoe Factory to also include a new pair of running shoes.

“We are a community church so we wanted to be a blessing in our community,” said New City Church lead pastor Ray Narula. “There are needs in our community where there are single parents, low-income families and we wanted to empower kids going back to school with confidence.”

More than 250 students have already registered for the program.

When Patrick Hart, dealer principal at Brantford Kia, heard about how many students were in need, he jumped at the chance to help.

“We agreed that every year we would do something for the community,” Hart said. “The community is how we make our living. It’s important to pay it back. Those who have a lot need to help those who don’t.”

The backpacks will be handed out to students during a rally at New City Church on Friday, Aug. 24. Free haircuts will be given to kids who register between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m., followed by a barbecue with appearances by Herbie Kuhn, voice of the Toronto Raptors, and a CFL player.

Anyone interested in helping fill a backpack with supplies can pick up a backpack and a checklist at Brantford Kia on Lynden Road.

Families who would like to register their children for a backpack can apply at www.ncclive.com, by calling 519-759-7990 or by dropping in at the church, 190 Lynden Rd.