BACKPACKS FOR KIDS
Led by President Rachel Green | rgreen@backpacksforkids.help
BACKPACKS FOR KIDS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that operates exclusively on a not-for-profit basis, dedicated solely to serving the public benefit. We believe every child deserves to start their educational journey with the tools they need to succeed.
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Our Location
Serving Communities from Hamilton, New York
Located in the heart of Central New York, our organization operates from Hamilton, New York 13346-1338. This strategic location allows us to effectively serve rural and urban communities throughout the region, ensuring that children from all backgrounds have access to the educational resources they need.
Our Hamilton base serves as the central hub for collecting donations, organizing volunteer efforts, and coordinating distribution events that reach families across New York State and beyond.
Physical Address:
Hamilton, New York
13346-1338
Our Mission
Ready for success, one backpack at a time.
BACKPACKS FOR KIDS is a nonprofit organization that provides children in need with backpacks filled with school supplies, ensuring they start the school year prepared and confident. We understand that education is the foundation of opportunity, and no child should face the barrier of not having basic school supplies.
Through partnerships with local schools, community organizations, and generous donors, we identify students who would benefit most from our program and deliver hope directly into their hands through carefully curated backpacks filled with grade-appropriate supplies.
What We Provide
Quality Backpacks
Durable, comfortable backpacks designed to last the entire school year. We select bags that students will be proud to carry, boosting their confidence as they head to class each day.
Essential School Supplies
Grade-appropriate supplies including notebooks, pencils, pens, crayons, glue sticks, folders, and more. Each backpack is customized based on the student's grade level and specific school requirements.
Hope & Confidence
Beyond the physical supplies, we provide children with the confidence that comes from being prepared. When a child has the tools they need, they're ready to focus on learning and growing.
Our Impact by the Numbers
2,500+
Children Served
Backpacks distributed to students in need across New York State since our founding
45
Partner Schools
Educational institutions we collaborate with to identify and serve students most in need
150
Active Volunteers
Dedicated community members who help pack, organize, and distribute backpacks
$275K
Community Investment
Total value of supplies and backpacks provided to children and families in need
How Our Program Works
01
School Partnership
We partner with local schools and counselors to identify students who would benefit most from receiving a fully stocked backpack. Schools help us understand specific supply needs and connect us with families.
02
Community Fundraising
Through donations from individuals, businesses, and community groups, we raise funds to purchase high-quality backpacks and grade-appropriate school supplies for each identified student.
03
Volunteer Assembly
Our dedicated volunteers gather to pack each backpack with care, ensuring every child receives supplies tailored to their grade level and individual needs identified by their school.
04
Direct Distribution
We coordinate with schools and families to distribute backpacks directly to students, often during special events that celebrate their readiness for the new school year.
Success Stories
Sarah, 3rd Grade Teacher
"I've seen firsthand how receiving a backpack transforms a child's entire attitude about school. Last year, Maria came to class with her new backpack beaming with pride. She went from being withdrawn to actively participating because she finally felt prepared and valued."
Jennifer, Parent
"As a single mother working two jobs, buying school supplies was a real struggle. When my son received his backpack from BACKPACKS FOR KIDS, I almost cried. It wasn't just about the supplies – it was about knowing our community cares about our children's success."
These stories represent hundreds of families who have been touched by the generosity of our donors and volunteers. Each backpack represents hope, dignity, and the community's investment in our children's futures.
Ways to Support Our Mission
Make a Donation
Your financial contribution directly purchases backpacks and supplies for children in need. Even $25 can fill a backpack with essential items for one student.
  • $25 fills one backpack
  • $100 supports four students
  • $250 supplies an entire classroom
Volunteer Your Time
Join our team of dedicated volunteers who help with fundraising events, backpack assembly days, and distribution coordination. No experience necessary – just a heart for helping children.
  • Backpack packing events
  • Fundraising coordination
  • Community outreach
Spread the Word
Help us reach more children in need by sharing our mission with friends, family, and colleagues. Follow us on social media and help raise awareness about educational equity in our communities.
  • Share our mission online
  • Refer families in need
  • Connect us with schools
Upcoming Events & Opportunities
Annual Back-to-School Drive
Join us this August for our biggest event of the year! We're seeking volunteers to help pack 800 backpacks for students across Central New York. This community-wide effort brings together families, businesses, and civic groups for a day of service and celebration.
When: August 15th, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Where: Hamilton Community Center
Corporate Partnership Program
We're expanding our reach through strategic partnerships with local businesses. Companies can sponsor backpacks, host supply drives, or encourage employee volunteerism while demonstrating their commitment to education and community development.

Get Involved Today: Contact Rachel Green at rgreen@backpacksforkids.help to learn about volunteer opportunities, make a donation, or discuss partnership possibilities. Every contribution, big or small, makes a difference in a child's educational journey.
Contact BACKPACKS FOR KIDS
Ready to Make a Difference?
Every child deserves to start the school year with confidence and the tools they need to succeed. Join our mission to ensure no child faces the barrier of inadequate school supplies.
BACKPACKS FOR KIDS
Hamilton, New York 13346-1338
Contact Information
Rachel Green, President
rgreen@backpacksforkids.help
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, all donations to BACKPACKS FOR KIDS are tax-deductible. We operate exclusively for charitable and educational purposes, ensuring every dollar goes directly toward serving children in need.