Weather forecast forces change of plans at 31 Backpacks

31 Backpacks traditionally holds its weekly sessions on Wednesday evenings, but forecasts call for up to a foot of snow beginning this evening. To get ahead of Mother Nature, the organization will instead have its pack tonight at Glad Tidings Assembly of God Church in Hancock.

The group’s efforts are picked up by bus drivers and delivered to administrators at every individual school in the Copper Country ISD. On Friday, less fortunate kids receive toiletries and nutritious meals that are designed to last through the weekend.

Founders Laurel and Melissa Maki say school officials have said there is a noticeable improvement in students’ moods and ability to retain what they are learning in the classroom since the program started.