Operation Backpack® is our annual campaign that provides new backpacks and school supplies to children in need, helping them start school with confidence and the tools to succeed. Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, 3,000+ children were equipped for the 2026 school year. Join us in making next year even bigger!
1300+ Backpacks
Given to School Districts and Partners
1200+ Backpacks
Given at the Detroit Zoo(Public Distribution Event)
500+ Backpacks
Given to VOA Michigan Clients
200 MORE
Students Helped than in 2025
7
Total School Districts Served
29
Total Drives
100+
Total Volunteers
$195,000
Worth of Backpacks/Supplies Distributed
Looking for more?
Download our full recap report to see media statistics and quotes from those whose lives were touched.
Enjoy all of the photos from our backpack distribution event at the Detroit Zoo.
Want to help next year? There are many ways that you, family, friends, and colleagues can participate in Operation Backpack®and help a child in need:
Purchase Supplies
Shop at Our Online Store
Purchase items from our supply list on your own and drop them off at any of our six thrift stores or the VOAMI Southfield office during the drive.
We partner with Roonga™ to make shopping convenient. You can purchase during the drive grade-specific supply kits or pre-filled backpacks. The items purchased through this storefront will shipped directly to us at our office in time for the first day of school.
DONATE
Can’t participate? Consider donating! Your support and monetary donations are critical in changing the lives of our most vulnerable students across the state. You have the power to make our world a better place and give at-risk and homeless students a chance.
BECOME A SPONSOR
You have the chance to make a difference and be a part of something bigger! By sponsoring Operation Backpack® you provide support for VOAMI to make it happen. Email dbann@voami.org for more information.
VOLUNTEER
You can personally sort and pack backpacks, and even write notes of encouragement to set children up for success. Operation Backpack® relies on the kindness of individuals just like you to make the biggest impact possible.
START A DRIVE
You can organize
a local drive and
invite your friends
and colleagues to
participate by donating
school supplies and
backpacks using our
supply lists as a guide.
Want to save some
time? You can also
purchase supply kits
on our online.
Thank you to our sponsors!
Captain Supporter
Sergeant Supporter
Corporal Sponsor
Volunteer Sponsor
