MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- A local school is combining its commitment to community service and art to assist those in need.

As part of their applied art curriculum, eighth graders at Tamarack Waldorf School on Milwaukee's east side learned how to use a sewing machine to make backpacks, and then filled those backpacks with donated items.

The school partnered with Pathfinders, a local group that supports young people in crisis, including some who experience homelessness.

"I think this project was one of the better projects we did because we know that we're doing something good for the community and we can help out people who need things the most," said eighth grader Hannah Rose.

Some of the donated items include felted soap, handmade journals, sewing kits, toothbrushes, socks and sanitary products.