Notebooks, folders, pens, pencils, erasers, calculators and backpacks — getting these supplies is a necessity before school starts, and the Salvation Army is making that easier for some families in Austin.

The Salvation Army handed out school supplies to a long line of people Tuesday morning at the Oak Park Mall. They will also be distributing on Wednesday until supplies run out.

The annual drive ensures that low-income families get the materials their children in grades 1 through 12 need for school. Supplies were collected throughout August with donation bins at various locations in Austin. Cash donations went toward the project as well.

“It really helps out a lot,” says Amy Schaper, a single mother who goes to the drive each year. “I don’t know what we would do without it.”

Her daughter, Kaylee Kalbow, will be a sixth-grader at Ellis Middle School and is one of the many students to receive a brand-new backpack.

In addition to the paper bag of school supplies each student collects, they receive $10 to spend on clothing at the Salvation Army.

Lorie Blanton, case worker of the Salvation Army, said they plan to help up to 300 area children at this drive, about 50 more than last year.

“It’s going awesome,” she says.

And now that the Salvation Army is no longer partnered with the Caring Tree for this campaign, Blanton appreciates the efforts of donors and volunteers.

She also adds that “Oak Park Mall is a huge partner,” thanking Lynette Jarvis, marketing director of the mall.

Maxine Brady, a Salvation Army worker, has seen many families benefit from the school supplies drive, and encouraged people to continue giving.

“Anytime, we’ll take anything,” she says. “If we can’t use it today, we’ll use it tomorrow.”