While school children and their families increasingly struggle to make ends meet in 2026, the Western Placer Unified School District’s Family Resource Center (The HUB) works hard to fill the financial gaps so kids can thrive in school.

The Lincoln Democratic Club just completed a donation drive that helps equip The HUB with well over 200 new, high-quality backpacks that will be distributed to kids at its Back-to-School Resource Fair on Saturday, Aug. 8 at the Lincoln High School parking lot on 790 J Street from 9 a.m. until 12 p.m. The fair is set up to help families and students who are facing financial challenges prepare for the upcoming school year.

“Our members understand that many of our neighbors are finding it harder and harder to keep up financially, especially during the last 18 months as a result of tariffs, higher energy prices and federal aid cuts,” said Ruth Cox, President of the local club. “Our members are enthusiastic about helping to make sure all students have the resources they need to learn and flourish.”

The backpack drive began in mid-June and ends Friday, July 31. In addition to the more than 200 backpacks purchased, the members donated an additional $325 for The HUB to acquire other school supplies, like pens, pencils, paper and binders. The donation drive was the third such club effort in 2026 in support of Lincolnites who need assistance, making a real impact in the community.

During last year’s Back-to-School Fair, The HUB served 600 children and families in need of supplies, while hoping to serve more students and families during this year's event.

“One of our goals is to understand community issues and take action where it matters most,” said Sharon Kurth, Community Service Leader for the Club. “We are well known for supporting Democratic values, worthy candidates and Get-Out-The-Vote drives, but strengthening our community through service is at the heart of who we are.”

In May, club members and an allied group called the Left Leaning Ladies contributed over 500 personal toiletry items to The HUB, and in February, its members donated 5,000 diapers to the Lighthouse Counseling and Family Resource Center for distribution to mothers in need. For more information on the Democratic Club of Lincoln visit democraticclublincolnca.org.