Contact Us

 

Backpack and School Supply Distribution


The start of a new school year can be a very exciting and important time for children and parents alike. But for many families, it can also mean additional expenses on already-stretched budgets. New clothes and school supplies are not cheap, and for many of the clients who depend on us, it’s either a big challenge…or an impossibility.

Our annual Back2School Drive helps raise funds for new backpacks filled with school supplies that we collect or purchase, and then distribute throughout our charitable network. This year we distributed more than 400 backpacks to such places as God’s Love in Action, Refugio De Ezperanza, Holy Cross, Oasis, Bed-Stuy Campaign Against Hunger and La Jornada.

Cross Roads Food Pantry’s Ed Reigadas can attest that the backpacks are well-received. In addition to the new book bags, “the big surprise was the school supplies inside the bags - pencils, pens, notebooks, pencil sharpener…lots of stuff they usually can't afford…and the timing was perfect!”

The only thing schoolkids should be thinking about with a new school year is making good grades! Thank you to everyone who donates and helps make our Back2School Drive a success!



GAP Director Kathy Gibson begins the fun process of handing out the backpacks. The children patiently wait for their turn.


What color do you want? Backpacks were filled with school supplies based on the child's age.
 

The price of the new backpack was a thank you hug - Priceless!
Lots of fun discovering that they are receiving more than a bag.
Strutting his stuff!