VOAMI OPERATION BACKPACK UNDERWAY

METRO DETROIT — Volunteers of America Michigan has already started planning for its 14th annual Operation Backpack for the 2023-2024 school year.

The back-to-school drive, which began June 19, collects and distributes new backpacks full of gradespecific supplies to children in low-income households.

Community members are encouraged to sign up to host a drive and begin collecting school supplies including pencils, notebooks, backpacks, folders, pens and crayons. The supplies will be used to fill children’s backpacks.

The community can help in the following ways: hosting a donation drive, sponsorships, shopping the related Amazon Wish List or the online store, donating directly, or becoming a sponsor or a “Backpack Buddy.”

For more information, visit voami.org/backpack or call (248) 945-0101.

Blood donors needed, incentives offered

DETROIT — The American Red Cross is looking for individuals to donate blood, platelets or plasma, and is offering incentives for those who donate. According to Red Cross representatives, all blood types are needed, especially Type B-negative and Type O-negative.

There are three ways to make an appointment: download the Red Cross blood donor app on your phone, visit RedCrossBlood.org, or call (800) RED CROSS, which is (800) 733-2767.

To encourage blood donations, the Red Cross is offering incentives. Now through June 30, donors will receive a $10 gift card by email to a merchant of their choice and will be automatically entered for a chance to win a backyard theater package. Donors who give July 1-11 will receive an exclusive Red Cross dry bag, while supplies last. Details for both offers can be found at RedCrossBlood.org/June.