Kids grades kindergarten through fourth, who may need a backpack for the new school year can pick one up this weekend, courtesy of Washington Community Care Coalition.

Saturday, WCCC teams up with the Washington Fire Department to pass out to kids in need 110 book bags, packed with literature and other goodies, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Fire Station No. 1 on the corner of Fifth and Markets streets.

“This is the first time we’ve done the backpack giveaway to the kids,” said WCCC President Thornton Gorham.

WCCC is best known for its annual Christmas food giveaway, which Gorham started 31 years ago. Now, through donations and fundraisers, WCCC is adding the backpack giveaway to its annual repertoire.

While the backpacks are reserved for students of certain grades, Gorham said the hotdogs, chips and sodas (donated by the local Coca-Cola Bottling Co.) will be served to anyone. In addition to the free food, around the back of the firehouse, WCCC will be hosting a chicken and fish plate fundraiser simultaneously.

Gorham said the backpacks are being given away on a first-come, first-served basis. Lt. William Chrismon with Washington Police Department and Al Powell, director of the Police Activities League, are slated to speak at the event.

Gorham said WCCC welcomes donations — anyone who would like to contribute to the backpack giveaway can call Gorham at 252-946-3906 or sent a check payable to WCCC to P.O. Box 1182, Washington, NC 27889.