As the first day of school approaches, Lathrop officials strive to make sure elementary school children return with the proper supplies.

City officials have joined forces to start the first Backpack and School Supply Drive for Lathrop elementary schools. The plan is to get people to donate backpacks and other supplies for children who will need them when school begins again Aug. 10.

City Finance Director Terri Vigna recently proposed the plan to her co-workers. Their reaction was an overwhelming yes.

“It’s a little something we can do,” City Clerk Mitzi Ortiz said. “The finance director has daughters in the schools, and I have children in the school district as well, and we can see the need. It seems more and more parents are expected to buy the supplies because teachers can’t supply their classrooms.”

The group’s goal is to seek donations of typical supplies, including backpacks, pencils, pencil pouches, crayons, binders and rulers. Officials ask only that donated backpacks are not red or blue, because of the Manteca Unified School District dress code policy.

“Whatever they are able and willing to donate would be great,” Ortiz said.

Donations can be dropped off at Lathrop City Hall, 390 Towne Centre Drive; Lathrop-Manteca Fire Stations, 800 J St. and 460 River Islands Parkway; and Lathrop Police Services, 15597 Seventh St.

Donations will be accepted through Aug. 6 during regular business hours.

The items will be distributed at Widmer, Mossdale and Lathrop elementary schools before the start of school.