A new Peoria nonprofit for at-risk youth has received a donation of backpacks and school supplies from inmates at a nearby federal prison.

Reports indicate Betty and Forrest Holcomb, Jr. started the Save a Child Program this summer in memory of their adult son who committed suicide with an illegally-obtained gun in July 2013. The program offers activities for youth ages 8-15 who are at risk of exposure to gangs and gun violence.

Ten inmates at the federal prison in Pekin pooled their commissary funds for the donation to 23 young people.

Rev. Belay Reddick says he and the other inmates hope to help improve lives.

Forrest Holcomb says about 60 children participated in the program this summer. About 25 regularly attended weekly events.