1 Million Backpack
ICNA Relief’s Back2School Program As the school year approaches, many families face financial stress. The cost of school supplies and uniforms can be overwhelming, especially for low-income families. With the 2023 federal poverty level for a family of four at $30,000, lingering pandemic effects, high unemployment rates, and over 30 million students in free and reduced meal programs, countless parents struggle to provide essential school supplies. This lack of resources can hinder students’ confidence and success in school. Recognizing this challenge, ICNA Relief has made it their mission to empower students and strengthen communities through their annual Back2School Program. A Milestone Achievement This year marks a significant milestone for ICNA Relief, as the organization surpasses the distribution of 1 millionth backpack since the inception of the Back2School Program in 2008. What began as a small local effort has evolved into a nationwide campaign, providing backpacks filled with school supplies to children in need. Restoring Dignity The Back2School Program is about more than just distributing backpacks. It’s about restoring dignity and confidence to children as they begin the school year. Each backpack symbolizes an investment in a child’s future, showing them that their education matters. Community-Driven Success The success of ICNA Relief’s Back2School Program is built on the power of community collaboration. Partnering with local mosques, schools, businesses, and nonprofits, the initiative mobilizes thousands of volunteers who work tirelessly to ensure that children receive their supplies in time for the first day of school. Empowering the Next Generation ICNA Relief believes that education is key to breaking the cycle of poverty. By providing children with the necessary tools for success, the Back2School Program empowers the next generation and strengthens communities nationwide Version 2 As we approach the new school year, we must recognize the financial strain many families face. For low-income families, the cost of school supplies and uniforms can be overwhelming, especially with the lingering effects of the pandemic, high unemployment rates, and over 30 million students in free and reduced meal programs. Many parents struggle to provide essential school supplies, which can impact their children’s confidence and success in school. ICNA Relief has taken on the vital mission of empowering students and communities through its annual Back2School Program. This year marks a significant achievement for ICNA Relief, as the organization has surpassed the distribution of 1 million backpacks since the inception of the Back2School Program over 15 years ago. What started as a small local effort has grown into a nationwide campaign, providing backpacks filled with school supplies to children in need. The Back2School Program is about more than just distributing backpacks. It’s about restoring dignity and confidence to children as they begin the school year. Each backpack represents an investment in a child’s future, showing them that their education matters. The success of ICNA Relief’s Back2School Program relies on the power of community collaboration. By partnering with local mosques, schools, businesses, and nonprofits, the initiative mobilizes thousands of volunteers who work tirelessly to ensure that children receive their supplies in time for the first day of school. ICNA Relief believes that education is key to breaking the cycle of poverty. By providing children with the necessary tools for success, the Back2School Program empowers the next generation and strengthens communities nationwide🎒✨ Check out our recent school supply and backpack giveaway featured on WGN TV. https://icna.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/WhatsApp-Video-2024-08-29-at-8.45.12-PM.mp4