Operation Backpack Is Back!

Looking to give back to the community this summer? Get involved with Volunteers of America-Greater New York’s annual campaign, Operation Backpack. Spread the news to your family and friends to make this year record breaking!

Operation Backpack is an annual campaign that collects new backpacks and school supplies for children who cannot afford it. The backpacks go to children in New York City that are living in homeless and domestic violence shelters. Be apart of the campaign that will put a smile on a child’s face!

This is a great opportunity for you and your family to take part in community service. As parents, you can encourage your children to give back to the community, teach them to appreciate what they have and motivate them to give to those who are less fortunate. Filled backpacks not only put a smile on a child’s face, but it will also make them feel more comfortable and confident on their first day of school.

The Operation Backpack campaign will start on Monday July 14 and end on August 8. Every Duane Reade in the City’s five boroughs will be accepting backpack and supply donations. Once collected, the donations will be sorted based on grade level and gender. FedEx will then contribute to the campaign by transporting thousands of backpacks from more than 100 corporate partners.

VOA-GNY started this campaign in 1999 in an effort to collect school supplies. In 2001 with the support of corporate community, this campaign grew! In 2004 it was re-named, Operation Backpack.

Last year there was a record-breaking campaign of 16,100 backpacks. This year the goal is to fill 16,500 backpacks for children! Operation Backpack has been so successful that it is now held in VOA locations across the country.

Every little bit counts in Operation Backpack. Become a part of a campaign that helps children get off on the right foot when it comes to their education!

For more information visit voa-gny.org!