Last summer, generous shoppers in Austin helped 106 families and 264 children and teenagers.

This year, there could be even more families, children and teenagers in need.

It's time for the Salvation Army Austin Corps' annual "Back To School Program."

With the cooperation of Oak Park Mall, low-income families receive help in sending their children and teenagers to classes this fall.

"We're excited because, this year, we have the Younkers Store helping out," said Pat Wright, social services supervisor for the Austin Corps. "We're hoping the program will be a big success."

The kickoff is July 30 at Oak Park Mall, when the Salvation Army will have a Caring Tree located near Centre Court.

Shoppers can visit the Caring Tree and take a tag from it containing the list of needed items.

The Back To School Program is much like the annual Angel Tree project at Christmas time.

The lists contain only necessary school supply items required by school districts.

Applications from needy families are being taken now, according to Wright who said the deadline for applying is Aug. 1.

"The applications may be picked up at the Salvation Army Austin Corps and then returned by the deadline," Wright said.

Shoppers will have from July 30 to Aug. 27, when the items are slated to be distributed, to purchase the items for children and teenagers.

The program enjoys the continuing support of its original sponsor, the Minnesota Shopping Center Association and its member malls, such as Austin's Oak Park, Wright said.

"We really appreciate their help to make this much-needed program a success," Wright said.

Last summer, the local Salvation Army had 86 families apply for items for 213 children and teenagers in the sign-up period.

"Immediately after the period ended, we had a rush of applicants," Wright said.

Twenty more families, representing 51 children, also requested assistance from the Back To School Program.

"We know the need is out there," Wright said.

Not only are shoppers being asked to adopt a family and help them outfit their children and teenagers for a return to the classroom this fall, but the Salvation Army also is helping.

Once again, the Salvation Army Austin Corps will provide new book bags to all of the children and teenagers it helps this summer.

For more information about the program, call Wright at 437-4566.

In addition to adopting a family/child on the Caring Tree, individual cash donations are also welcome from individuals, churches, clubs and organizations.

Lee Bonorden can be contacted at 434-2232 or by e-mail at :mailto:lee.bonorden@austindailyherald.com