BUFFALO, N.Y. — At the Boys & Girls Clubs of Buffalo on Babcock Street, the mission is simple: provide every child a safe place to grow and learn.

"Our mission is to provide every child a safe place to grow and learn," CEO at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Buffalo, Shari McDonough said.

RELATED: Fashion Outlets hosting back-to-school events next week

As the new school year approaches, that mission takes on even deeper meaning.

"It's a huge boost for a child to be on the exact same footing as every other kid in their class," McDonough explained.

For many students, that first day can set the tone for the entire year.

"It's nice to have something to keep all my supplies in and not have to carry it around," student Chris Merritt said.

That’s one of the goals of the annual 2 Pack a Backpac

See Full Page