Shopping for new school supplies is a cherished end-of-summer tradition for families across Canada.

When the school bell rings in September however, many Canadian families struggle to provide their children with the supplies they need to succeed.

Staples Canada and its customers are banding together for the seventh annual Staples School Supply Drive. The 2012 campaign will officially kick off July 29 and run until Sept. 9.

鈥淲e know that simple things like a new backpack, pens, or a lunchbox mean so much to students on the first day of school,鈥� said Steve Matyas, president of Staples Canada. 鈥淔or children and teens, these items are not just tools, but a way to start the school year with confidence and enthusiasm.鈥�

Each Staples Canada store has partnered with a local charity or school in their community. Stores will be collecting financial donations throughout the campaign, and will share them with their charity of choice.

As a result, all donations collected remain in their respective local communities. A complete list of stores and partners can be found at www.staples.ca/supplydrive.

鈥淧urchasing even basic school supplies is a struggle for many families, which is why the Staples School Supply Drive is a program our entire organization passionately rallies behind every year. We鈥檙e thrilled so many Canadians work with us to support thousands of children by providing much-needed school supplies to students across the country,鈥� continues Matyas.

This year, Staples鈥� goal is to raise a total of $1.5 million for the School Supply Drive. Customers can make a donation from July 29 until Sept. 9 at any Staples store, and in Quebec from July 29 until Sept. 2.

Since its inception in 2006 as a result of one Ottawa store, this campaign has helped raise more than $5 million for children in need across Canada. Staples encourages Canadians to once again give generously and help ensure all students have the tools required to learn and be successful during the academic year.

For more information, visit www.staples.ca/community.

鈥� Staples Canada