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.
Important Operation Backpack 2026 Dates
| WHEN | WHAT |
|---|---|
| Now | Pledge to donate or sponsor |
| Spring 2026 | Sponsorship packets available |
| May 2026 | Volunteer sign-ups open |
| Summer 2026 | Supply drives + online store launch |
| August 2026 | Backpack distribution event |
Purchase Supplies
Shop at Our Online Store
Purchase items from our supply list on your own and drop them off at any of our seven 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.
2025: Look What You Made Possible
Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, 2,800 children were equipped for the 2025 school year. Watch the video below and explore our recap to see the incredible impact you helped create.
1405 Backpacks
Given to School Districts and Partners
901 Backpacks
Given at Backpacks 4 You at the Detroit Zoo(Public)
494 Backpacks
Given to VOA Michigan Clients
600 MORE
Students Helped than in 2024
6
Total School Districts Served
54
Total Drives
310
Total Volunteers
$182,000
Worth of Backpacks Distributed
Looking for more?
Download our full recap report to see media statistics and quotes from those whose lives were touched.
Want to help this year? There are many ways that you, family, friends, and colleagues can participate in Operation Backpack®and help a child in need:
Thank you to our sponsors!
Want to learn more?
Phone: (248) 791-5105 ext. 1158 • opbk@voami.org
