Back to school can be a stressful time for families who struggle financially, but the Okotoks Family Resource Centre is working to lend a helping hand.

The School Supply Program is back this year and helping those who pass the required income testing by paying the school supply fee to their children's school or by giving them a $65 gift card to Staples.

Sherri Mullen, coordinator at the Okotoks Family Resource Centre, says ensuring students are prepared plays an important role in their achievements.

"It's always nice for kids when they go back prepared with the tools to start school," she says. "When they have everything that they need I think that the confidence level that they have increases and that their success is better."

With school starting in less than a month, Mullen says she's seeing numbers start to roll in for the program.

"Last year we helped 112 children in the communities that we serve. This year we already have 53 children registered and they're coming in quite steadily at this point."

The school supply program helps those living in Okotoks, Dewinton, Black Diamond, and Turner Valley.

Monetary donations can be dropped off at the Okotoks Family Resource Centre or be made at the till at Staples.

Questions, comments, or story ideas? Email us at news@okotoksonline.com