During the month of August, Arlington public libraries will be collecting school supplies such as backpacks, notebook paper, pencils and binders. Organizers are hoping to collect supplies for an estimated 8,000 children from underprivileged families who will be returning to class this fall in Arlington. The first day of school for the Arlington Independent School District is Monday, Aug. 18.

All school supplies donated at libraries will be picked up by Mission Arlington and distributed to families applying for assistance at the office at 210 W. South St. in downtown Arlington.

Lee Shqeir, the assistant to the library director, says collecting school supplies at city libraries is part of an ongoing effort to build more community service partnerships.

Mission Arlington Director Tillie Burgin said school supplies were distributed to about 6,200 students last year. They are estimating about 8,000 children will need school supplies this year. She said helping families with school supplies gives students the tools and self-confidence they need to begin a new school year. It also assists parents when money is needed for groceries, rent, or utility bills.

"We appreciate all of the community assistance we can get," Burgin said. "This is very important for the kids. In many ways, it is kind of like Christmas."