New London – The recent collection drive of “backpacks with healthy snacks” brought in 63 backpacks filled with items such as nuts, whole grain crackers, dried fruit and juice boxes that have been distributed to local agencies and needy families.

Michelle Allen, organizer of the drive on the National Day of Service Jan. 19, said she distributed the backpacks to seven local human services and educational organizations, and several backpacks were given to single-parent households in need.

Backpacks were given to Centro de la Communidad, Child and Family Agency, B.P.Learned Center, Boys and Girls Club of New London, the Drop in Learning Center, Safe Futures and the Waterford Country School.

Additional food collected that didn’t fit in the backpacks was given to the Gemma Moran United Way Labor Food Center in New London.