The annual SHELTER, Inc. backpack drive aims to send local schoolchildren back into the classroom with complete assortments of school supplies. Thanks to the support of friends, donors, and several local businesses, more than 100 full backpacks were distributed at various events around Contra Costa, Solano, and Sacramento counties.

Donations were accepted throughout the month of July. The local community responded in droves, with supplies for students from kindergarten through high school. These supplies ranged from the basics, such as paper and writing supplies, to lunch boxes, combination locks for lockers, USB flash drives, and, of course, the backpacks themselves.

“Thank you to all of our donors for your support of our Back to School Drive,” SHELTER, Inc. Volunteer Coordinator Yareth Rodriguez said. “We are thrilled to have your support. These donations ensure low-income students are equipped with the fundamental tools they’ll need to thrive in school.”

After being sorted by the SHELTER, Inc. team, the fully-stocked backpacks were distributed at several different locations in the area. The agency worked with state and local organizations that provide outreach to homeless and low-income families and individuals, and several of the events included perks such as Macy’s gift cards for some attendees.

These generous gifts will allow students to be as prepared as possible for the year ahead, which doubles as the first in-person instruction for many students since early-2020. SHELTER, Inc. thanks everyone who provided support for those in need during this annual effort. This includes businesses and groups such as Valero, the Experience Church in Fairfield, the Walnut Creek Congregation of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, the Danville Congregational Church, DBR Construction, Kindness 4 Tea, and Litman Gregory.