BERRIEN COUNTY, Mich. -- Backpacks for Berrien announced they will host the annual "Stuff a Bus" for local students on Friday at the Courthouse Square in Berrien Springs from 4 to 7 p.m.

Officials say this year's event will be bigger and better than ever, while continuing to make a difference in the community.

The nonprofit is looking to collect new backpacks of all sizes, notebooks, folders, pens, colored pencils, headphones, and other school essentials for students of all ages.

You can find a list of up-to-date supplies on the Backpacks for Berrien website.

The event will also feature multiple vendors, including Thistle and Knead Bakery, Rustic Rise Bakery, Shiloh's Place, Lunar Martial Arts and more.

Animal Aid will be there with adoptable pets as well, and Love Creek Nature Center will have reptiles and amphibians.

Kids can have their faces painted, learn how to fold the perfect paper airplane, and more as part of the fun, officials say.

The Courthouse Museum will be open with free entry during "Stuff a Bus."

Officials add that free museum passes good for the rest of the year will be given to the first 100 people.

If you can’t make it to Friday's event, officials say they have donation totes at the Berrien Springs Library, Biggby Coffee of Berrien Springs, Shiloh’s Place, and the Salt Haven.

School supplies can be dropped off at any of these locations during normal business hours.