PHOTO FLASH: Paige Davis Kicks Off Operation Backpack Campaign

Stage and screen star Paige Davis joined participants from the Volunteers of America — Greater New York and the Girl Scouts to kick off the Operation Backpack campaign, which begins June 27.

The drive collects brand-new, grade-specific backpacks filled with school supplies for children in New York area shelters, so they can start the school year with confidence. Starting June 27, brand-new backpacks and supplies will be collected at all Duane Reade stores.

Volunteers of America’s back-to-school drive began in 1999, and was retitled Operation Backpack in 2003. Last year, more than 7,000 homeless children were given backpacks and new school supplies. This year’s goal is at least 9,000. The drive now takes place around the country.

Davis’ Broadway credits include Boeing-Boeing and Chicago. She is perhaps best known for her Emmy-nominated work as host of the reality program, Trading Spaces.

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