Local non-profit surprises schools with free supplies

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Students need tools and supplies to succeed in the classroom; but sadly many children are forced to go without. The Chicago non-profit organization Back 2 School Illinois has made it their mission to provide every student with the items they need to achieve their dreams.

Now in its 13th year, Back 2 School Illinois is the largest provider of school supplies in the state. In 2016, the non-profit distributed more than 890,000 school supplies to nearly 30,000 Illinois families. The organization also provides college scholarships to high school seniors and hosts fitness and nutrition boot camps in Chicago.

Now you can help Chicago schools. Back 2 School Illinois is launching their "Win School Supplies for Every Student in School" contest. Applications for 2017 must be postmarked by July 24. Anyone can nominate a Chicago school and there is no limit to how many times a school can be nominated. The two winning Chicago schools will be selected over the summer and notified by August 7th.

During the first week of classes this fall, the student bodies of both winning schools will be surprised by Back 2 School Illinois with the delivery of the free school supplies. Matthew Kurtzman, the CEO of Back 2 School Illinois, joined Eyewitness News to talk about the importance of giving back and how you can help.

"Win School Supplies for Every Student in a School" contest.

Deadline to enter contest is July 24, 2017

Applications must be postmarked by July 24

Contest is open to Chicago schools only. (i.e.- schools within Chicago city limits)

For more information visit B2SI.org