Every Kid Deserves a First Day That Feels Like a Fresh Start.
This community filled backpacks for the August 11 Zoo event — thank you. But after nearly 300 families reached out in one weekend, more families are waiting than we planned for.
Gifts now may let us open the waitlist and reach more kids this school year.
These Families Applied. Now They’re Waiting on Us.
Every year, hundreds of parents across Michigan fill out an application and hope. Here’s what two of those parents told us just this month:
She’s finally starting school.
“I currently take care of my daughter who is disabled. She currently has a trach! She is beginning school this fall and we’re excited. Due to me losing my job because my daughter was sick I am unable to purchase school supplies this year. I am a mother of 5 who is struggling to make ends meet. I hope you understand this hardship for me. I’m thankful for the opportunity to be able to submit an application”
I made room for one more.
“As a single parent raising five children, including my nephew who recently came into my care through foster care, preparing for the school year has been a significant financial challenge. I work hard to provide a safe, loving, and stable home, and support like this helps ensure every child has what they need to start school feeling confident and prepared. Thank you for your generosity and for making a meaningful difference for families like ours.”
Families like these are still on the waitlist. Your gift may be the one that opens it.
Choose How You Want To Help
Donate — Give in 60 seconds.
Your gift goes directly to backpacks and supplies for at-risk and homeless
students across Michigan. Every $30 sends one child to school fully equipped.
Purchase a Backpack
Buy pre-filled backpacks or grade-specific supply kits through our Roonga
storefront. Everything ships directly to us, sorted and ready — no drop-off
needed.
Start a Drive and rally your people.
Launch a drive with your workplace, congregation, or friends in minutes. We
supply the tools; you supply the teammates.
Last Year, You Made This Happen
2,800 Children
equipped for school
310
volunteers
6
school districts served
“Last year my two oldest children were blessed to be able to be recipients of the VOA backpack giveaway. My son, whose in highschool was so appreciative of the items he received. With his AP classes those school supplies helped him so much. We are so appreciative of this and the people who donate and help make this possible. Thank you!”
Help students like this. Launch a drive with your workplace, congregation, or friends in minutes.
We supply the tools; you supply the teammates.
Does your child need a backpack?
To families needing help: Operation Backpack provides school supplies to families in need. We’re currently at capacity, but we’re grateful to our donors and actively seeking more support to expand our program and serve you. Please check back in early August.
To supporters: We need your help to reach more families. Consider donating to expand Operation Backpack’s impact.
Want to learn more?
Operation Backpack® is a program of Volunteers of America Michigan. Want the full story — dates, volunteer sign-ups, sponsors, and our 2025 recap?
Phone: (248) 791-5105 ext. 1158 • opbk@voami.org