YMCA of Greater Houston celebrates 20 years of YMCA Backpack operation

Today, the YMCA of Greater Houston launched its annual YMCA Operation Backpack initiative, which provides school supplies, backpacks and opportunities for youth to participate in YMCA after-school programs. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the YMCA of Greater Houston empowering Houston youth for academic success, instilling them with hope and the essential tools needed for a successful start to the 2024-2025 school year. Houstonians can continue to support Houston’s youth by contributing to the YMCA’s Operation Backpack from June 17 to July 19.

“Education is the cornerstone of our society and we are committed to working with the future generation to ensure everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed. Spearheading the YMCA’s Operation Backpack for two decades is a testament to our unwavering dedication to our community,” said Stephen Ives, President and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Houston. “We are focused on continued efforts to create not only physical space, but also opportunities for development and emotional well-being for the people who truly need it most. We are grateful to our incredible partners who are helping us realize this initiative.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Houston has a higher than average rate of child poverty, which impacts children’s learning. Through its partnership with HEB, KIAH-TV CW39, Radar Promotions and Air Specialist, YMCA Operation Backpack aims to distribute backpacks and school supplies to 30,000 students in Houston-area communities.

Houstonians can help positively impact the lives of students and contribute to one of the state’s largest back-to-school campaigns starting June 17 in the following ways:

• Donate online at ymcaoperationbackpack.org
• Text YMCA BACKPACK has 24365
• Donate to your local YMCA
• Donate a new backpack to your local YMCA
• Share this campaign with your family and friends!

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Funds raised through the YMCA’s Project Backpack initiative will directly benefit local youth and be used to purchase backpacks and provide opportunities for youth to participate in YMCA after-school programs to support the future brilliant students. Youth development, encompassing out-of-school time, child care, teen care and outreach, is a fundamental pillar of the YMCA of Greater Houston. Committed to enriching communities and the individuals within them, the Y diligently delivers program services tailored to foster growth and opportunity. The YMCA strives to provide invaluable opportunities that would otherwise not be available to the Houston community.

The YMCA of Greater Houston is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization and all donations are tax deductible. To receive more information on eligibility and receiving supplies, please contact your local YMCA. To learn more about how to donate to YMCA Operation Backpack, please visit ymcaoperationbackpack.org and follow the organization on Facebook @YMCAHouston and Instagram @YMCAHouston.

Source: YMCA of Greater Houston

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