Tools for School looking for families, organizations

Phil the Need is encouraging Putnam County families to sign up for its Tools for School program.

Those wishing to sign up or who know a family in need are encouraged to visit www.PhiltheNeed.net.

Each year, Tools for School purchases backpacks and preps them with a grade-specific supply list to be filled by participants.

Filled backpacks are then distributed to specific students who have registered. A new pair of athletic or tennis shoes is also provided for each registered student.

Organizations can request the number of backpacks and/or shoes they are willing to fill. They can then be picked up by July 11. Requests can be filled between then and July 25.

Filled backpacks and shoes should be returned by July 26. While it averages $45 to fill a backpack, shoes will vary by size.

Volunteers can then distribute backpacks and shoes during National Night Out at the Putnam County Fairgrounds on Aug. 2.

Tools for School served 600 Putnam County students last year.