What Made 2026 So Special

This year was our biggest Backpack Drive to date and one of our most ambitious. With more students to serve and more supplies to organize, it took a true team effort to make sure every backpack was packed with care and delivered with dignity.

From sorting and staging to packing and distribution, the energy in the room was constant: neighbors helping neighbors, volunteers working side-by-side, and partners stepping up to meet the moment.

Why It Matters

A backpack filled with supplies is more than a donation its a signal to a child that they are supported.

For families, it means relief at a time when back-to-school costs can be overwhelming. For students, it means starting the year ready to learn with the tools they need to participate fully, stay engaged, and feel proud.

Thank You to Our Partners

This drive is only possible because organizations across our community choose to lead with generosity. Were proud to recognize and thank:

·      John Muir Health Center  for standing with our students and families and helping make this drive possible year after year

·      Optum  for partnership, volunteer power, and continued commitment to student success

·      Community Youth Center (CYC)  for being a vital community hub and helping us bring this work to life

·      JTA Foundation  for joining us through a new partnership we’re excited to build and grow together

·      The Clorox Company  for donating hand sanitizer to help keep our community safe

Celebrating Our Volunteers

To our 160+ extraordinary volunteers who showed up across two days: thank you.

You sorted, packed, lifted, organized, encouraged, and kept things moving with care and joy. Your time and energy turned supplies into support and made sure thousands of students start the year with what they need.