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Dallas County Emergency Management Agency was awarded a $5,000 grant from International Paper Giving Grant Foundation.

Dallas County Emergency Management Agency Director Toya Stiles said she used the money to purchase 145- one person standard backpack emergency kits. She also said the kits include essential emergency supplies that will last for three days.

“Other items could be added to the backpack,” Stiles said. “This backpack could be used if someone needs to leave home in the event of a disaster or if someone has to shelter in place.”

Stiles said the other items include six water pouches, a 37 piece first aid kit, LED flashlight, mini AM/FM radio with batteries, food bar, emergency thermal blanket, poncho with hood, 10 water purification tablets, 12-hour light stick, pair of vinyl gloves, dust mask, kleenex and a safety whistle.

Stiles will distribute the backpacks at 10 a.m. Friday at Bloch Park to senior citizens and people with disabilities on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Stiles, who has served as EMA Director for the last five years, said she appreciates International Paper giving the funding.