Backpacks from Heaven being handed looking to expand initiative to help Winnipeggers

Sleeping bags, winter clothing, food, and other items. These are vital contents of the Gone Too Soon Backpacks from Heaven.

These supplies will be handed out to unsheltered Winnipeggers as early as Friday.

Thirty-some volunteers cruise along the tables. Each carries a backpack, with a list that includes snacks, hygiene products, clothing, and a bible.

Following this, the street survival kits go into the truck and will be taken to the Salvation Army in Winnipeg’s downtown.

Community members say this initiative matters not only to those in need but to volunteers themselves.

“We just want to make sure that we do this once a year. Because there is a real community feel. And it’s healing for the group. But it also shows, even for one day, it shows our people that are out there that we do think about them, care about them, and love them,” said Mitch Bourbonniere, a community outreach worker.

The committee is keeping its head up. They are looking forward to expanding in the years to come, with more space and more backpacks to hand out. But a fully volunteer-based initiative has its challenges.

“This year it’s 200; it was our goal. Last year we did a 150, and I am sure we want to do more next year. We will run out of room here to store the things. Because we take the whole year to collect,” explained Lise Léveillé, a Backpacks from Heaven committee member.

The project brings together local businesses and community outreach workers.

Among participants, many carry a story of a loved one lost to an overdose. For some here, like Léveillé, it is a personal healing journey.

“Coming together is just giving everybody a sense of purpose, a sense of belonging, something to work together towards,” said Léveillé.

The Gone Too Soon Backpacks from Heaven will be available in the Salvation Army, and volunteers will hand them out to the homeless and struggling Winnipeggers.