Valley Churches United Missions seeks school supplies, new shoes and gift cards as part of its annual Back to School campaign.

The nonprofit gives a new backpack, writing utensils, a calculator, erasers, a new pair of shoes and other supplies to students whose families do not have sufficient resources. 

Sponsoring a student for $40 provides a backpack with supplies and shoes. Residents can also join the frequent-shopper club at Ben Lomond andScottsValleymarkets and designate “VCUM Education” as a beneficiary.

In 2011, 370 students received school supplies.

Donations may be mailed to VCUM (Backpacks),P.O. Box 367,Ben Lomond,CA95005. All donations earmarked “backpacks” will be designated for the campaign.

Purchased supplies can be dropped off at the charity’s offices, 9400 Highway 9, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Friday; at Ben Lomond Gas Station, 9500 Highway 9, seven days a week; or at the Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce, 360 Kings Village Road, in Scotts Valley from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday.

For information: 336-8258, ext. 221.