Operation Backpack provides school essentials for those in need
Volunteers of America Michigan (VOAMI), a metro-Detroit nonprofit agency specializing in providing critical services, shelter and food for veterans, affordable housing for aging seniors, and supportive services for struggling families, is announcing the return of its annual Operation Backpack campaign with this year’s Backpacks 4 You at the Detroit Zoo event.
The event provides metro-Detroit children in need with essential school supplies and, new this year, a few fun surprises.
With more than 900 metro-Detroit students in need who have already signed up, Volunteers of America Michigan expects to give away more than 1,200 backpacks directly to community members, in addition to another 1,000 that will be distributed through school district partners.
Backpack stuffed with fun items
Each backpack will be stuffed with new school supplies, two free tickets to The Detroit Zoo (valid for up to a year), a complimentary haircut from Douglas J, and books provided by Molina Healthcare.
The program is honor-system based with no strings attached, but registration is required and families must sign up in advance here to reserve their backpack and a scheduled pickup time slot to ensure a smooth and comfortable experience for everyone.
The backpack distribution event will take place on Wednesday, August 13, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the entrance to The Detroit Zoo located at 8450 W. 10 Mile Rd, Royal Oak, MI 48067 (no zoo entry required to receive your backpack).
Backpack donations are still needed.
One in five Michigan students in need
“Programs like these are vital for our community as approximately one in five children in Michigan start school without the supplies they need, and lack of supplies can lead to missed assignments, low self-esteem, and lost opportunities,” said Volunteers of America Michigan President and CEO Aubrey Macfarlane.
“Operation Backpack gives kids what they need to start school strong, feel confident and succeed.”
How to get involved
Need a Backpack:
- Register at Operation Backpack – VOA Michigan;
- Registrations must be submitted by a legal guardian for children living in their household; and
- Group signups not allowed via form (email opbk@voami.org for group coordination).
How to donate
VOAMI will continue to accept school supplies and financial donations throughout the duration of the campaign as the need for backpacks may surpass the number available. To donate contact opbk@voami.org.
For more information, visit voami.org/operationbackpack or email opbk@voami.org
