CHAMPAIGN — It's time to start thinking back-to-school, and a group of local churches will be holding its annual distribution of backpacks and school supplies early this month.

The Christian Mercy and Justice Network will distribute those items on Saturday, beginning at 9:30 a.m., at Salt and Light, 1512 W. Anthony Drive, C.

The church network has been doing the giveaway for about a decade, and more than 20 Champaign County churches are participating, said Vern Fein, co-leader of the distribution and also a board member for Salt and Light and the Eastern Illinois Foodbank, and an outreach minister at the Vineyard Church.

The distribution typically draws about 1,000 people, Fein said. The goal for this year is to have 900 backpacks to give away, the same number distributed last year. They'll be filled with a variety of school supplies, such as notebooks, pencils and pens, binders, rulers and glue.

"We realize this stuff isn't going to last all year, but it still saves (money). There's a pretty penny in each backpack," Fein said.

The organizers get supply lists from school districts and try to group items so they are age- and grade-appropriate. The supplies are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Adults must bring proof of dependency document — such as a birth certificate, medical card or WIC booklet — for the children for whom they are getting backpacks and supplies. There are no income requirements for receiving the school supplies.

Parents or guardians can also register their children for school physicals at the event. The Champaign County Christian Health Clinic will be making appointments for physicals to be done at a later date.

The churches are also giving away car seats, and there will be people to demonstrate how to install them properly.

In addition, the Family Resource Day will include a food distribution, and the clothing at Salt and Light will be available.

Finally, the distribution will include an information bag with materials from local community service organizations, a free book for children, and "prayer for everyone who wants it," Fein said.

Snacks and water will be available for those waiting, and kids can occupy their time with children's activities.

Fein expects to see a large number of people seeking school supplies and other items at this year's Family Resource Day.

"There is such a great need," he said.