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Missoula nonprofit Youth Homes is looking for donations to help kids in their group home setting prepare to go back to school.

The organization is asking for gift cards to local businesses to help finance getting new clothes for kids in their care, many of whom are facing abuse, neglect, emotional trauma, or substance abuse issues, according to a press release from the nonprofit.

Executive Director Amy Schaer said kids the program serves want to feel their best like any other kid going back into the classroom.

“Missoula is an incredibly generous place, and we are asking our community to donate gift cards to the same places you take your kids to go back to school shopping,” she said. “Our kids need to have a similar experience of picking out clothes and shoes they like that speak to their personality.”

“Over the summer, they’ve missed their friends and the routine of school,” she said. “This time of year is exciting for reconnecting and getting back into their favorite activities.”

The organization recommends dropping off gift cards at 550 N. California St. or donating at youthhomesmt.org.

Other Missoula organizations are also working to get students ready for going back to school, including the United Way of Missoula County and Missoula Chevrolet, who are partnering to give out 1,000 new backpacks filled with school supplies to kids in need on Wednesday.

The backpacks are going to be distributed to elementary, middle and high school students at 3663 N. Reserve St.

CEO of United Way of Missoula County Susan Hay Patrick said in a statement it’s not just about getting supplies to kids who need them.

“It’s about giving kids confidence and empowering them to succeed in school from Day One,” she said.

The Missoula Food Bank will also be giving out backpacks with supplies and gently used clothing, as well as access to the Kids Eat Free Program, on Wednesday outside of EmPower Place at 1720 Wyoming St.

Partner organizations at the event will also be offering free vaccinations and vision screenings.

Other organizations also work to distribute backpacks to make sure they reach students in a variety of circumstances, including Youth Homes, Soft Landing Missoula, the Missoula Fire Department, Missoula County Public Schools, Mineral County School District and other participating school districts.