Action Day to help 40,000 local students head back to school

Thousands of students will be prepared for school this fall, whether it’s held at home or in the classroom.

Greater Twin Cities United Way and Minnesota United FC are co-hosting Virtual Action Day to help 40,000 students get the school supplies they need.

"It’s a big goal because there’s a big need," President & CEO of Greater Twin Cities United Way said. "We know there are familes out there having to make tough decisions about back to school supplies or really other essential expenses like food and housing and medicine, so this is helping them to solve that problem."

Last year the event brought thousands together. This year because of the pandemic, they’re asking for people to put together school supplies from home or donate money for backpacks.

On Aug. 13, Virtual Action Day will be held at Allianz Field. More than 80 area nonprofits, along with school districts, will pick up the backpacks and supplies which they will give to students in need.

Those who volunteer or donate online will be entered into sweepstakes for the chance to win a Polaris Slingshot and VIP experiences from Minnesota’s professional sports teams.