Hundreds of Downriver Children Get Free Backpacks, School Supplies at Wyandotte Hospital Giveaway

Annette Plassman said she easily saved $100 on Saturday and had a good time doing it.

The mother of four was amongst the hundreds of people lined up outside for

The hospital teamed with Operation: Kid Equip and Affinity Group Credit Union to provide Downriver children with

"I couldn't believe it," Plassman said. "They just handed things out like it was Halloween. The kids had fun and it really helped save some money."

During the three-hour event, children had the chance to pick out a backpack and stuff it with school supplies, provided by the three partnering organizations.

Children also had the opportunity to pick out some books, which were provided through donations made to WDET's Books for Kids drive.

All in all, 350 fully loaded backpacks were given out.

"It was a great event and benefited a lot of deserving children," hospital spokeswoman Stephanie Scheer said.

The event got under way at 11 a.m., but some people were lined up as early as 9 a.m. to ensure they got in on the fun.

In addition to the giveaways, the event also featured a healthy snack demonstration, games, coloring stations, free blood pressure screenings and the opportunity to meet and speak with a Henry Ford Wyandotte Hospital family doctor.

"All of the information was great," Plassman said. "You could tell everyone was having a good time. I know I appreciated it."

Matt Jenkins, vice president of marketing and public relations for Affinity Group Credit Union, said that was the goal.

“As a credit union, our vision is 'Changing Lives; One Member At A Time' and we are fortunate to join forces with partners like Henry Ford Wyandotte Hospital and Operation: Kid Equip to change lives in our local communities," he said. "'Backpackpalooza Downriver' allowed us to help a lot of kids, and connect families with health and financial resources … nothing but a great effort.”

This was the second backpack giveaway that Operation: Kid Equip has done in Wyandotte.

Last year, the group at with new backpacks and school supplies.