Interfaith Social Services, a Quincy nonprofit founded in 1947, distributed more than 1,000 new backpacks and school supplies to South Shore children in August.

Individual donors and corporate sponsors funded the supplies, which went to families enrolled in Interfaith's programs, The Milton Scene reported Sept. 28. The organization serves families across the South Shore, including Milton and Canton, though it did not specify how many local families received backpacks.

The annual drive is one of several seasonal programs Interfaith runs for families in need.

"Education is a powerful tool in overcoming poverty, which is why our backpack program plays a vital role in supporting their success now and in the future," Roberta Ferguson-Gregg, Interfaith's assistant food pantry manager, told The Milton Scene.

Residents can learn more at interfaithsocialservices.org.