MARION – The Marion Police Department is gearing up for a brand new event to support our community. It’s called Badges and Backpacks.

According to Marion Police, this event is designed to help children in Marion get the essentials they need before the new school year starts.

Similar to the Cops with Kids program, Marion Police plan to take kids shopping so that they can get items such as clothes, shoes, hygiene products, and school supplies. This way, every child has the resources they need to succeed academically and feel confident in the classroom.

If your family needs assistance, please pick up an application at the Marion Police Department and submit it before July 15.

To be eligible to apply, your family must reside in the City of Marion or attend Marion Unit 2 schools. The police department is eager to see this initiative make a positive impact on our community. This event will occur in the first or second week of August. Applicants who are chosen will receive a phone call with the date and time.

The police department’s goal for this event is to give a minimum of 100 children $100 to get the items they need. Police are seeking sponsors to help make this event a success.

If you or your business would like to contribute, please reach out to Marion Police for more information on how to get involved.

For more details, contact Detective Calhoon at 618-993-2124 Ext. 1205.