East Cobb Kroger stores are collecting book bags and school supplies for homeless children in metro Atlanta.

Kroger's Atlanta Division, in partnership with the Children’s Restoration Network and WSB-TV, is conducting its 18th annual “Back 2 School” campaign that lasts through July 28. During the drive, 125 Kroger stores will serve as school supply drop-off sites to benefit metro Atlanta children. 

The Children Restoration Network’s Back 2 School program will distribute the book bags and school supplies to homeless children. CRN works with about 120 shelters and group homes that house more than 4,000 youth a year.

“Children’s Restoration Network provides hope and support to families in our community as they work toward ending the cycle of homelessness,” said Glynn Jenkins, director of communications and public relations for Kroger’s Atlanta Division, in a press release announcing launch of the school supplies drive. “We encourage our customers to participate in the ‘Back 2 School’ drive and help provide Atlanta’s children with the tools necessary for academic success.”

Items sought for the “Back 2 School” drive include new and gently used book bags, wide and college-ruled notebook paper, spiral notebooks, three ring binders, pens and pencils, calculators, markers, scissors, file folders, rulers, crayons, glue and dictionaries.

Kroger customers also can purchase prepackaged school supply bags at area stores and donate them.

East Cobb Kroger stores are located at Parkaire Landing, 4880 Lower Roswell Road; the Pavilions at East Lake, 2100 Roswell Road; 1120 Powers Ferry Road; and 3162 Johnson Ferry Road.

To find other Kroger store locations, visit www.kroger.com.