THANK YOU FOR YOUR ONGOING SUPPORT AND GENEROSITY

 My name is Kalia and I'm a local tenth grader from Solana Beach.

When I was in 7th grade, I came up with an  idea to collect used and new backpacks as well as school supplies to donate to local kids in need throughout San Diego.  

At that time, I had a knee injury which required me to use crutches to walk.  It was COVID and we were not allowed to use backpacks at my school but my principal made an exception for me.  I asked my mom to get a backpack for me from the attic in our garage because I could not climb a ladder.  She brought me 7 perfectly fine backpacks to choose from!

I remember going back to school shopping as one of my favorite memories.  Realizing that a lot of families struggle to provide supplies and backpacks for their children motivated me to do something. Because we were in a pandemic, I had a lot of spare time to think about ways I could help. I came up with backpackgiveback and, with the help of my family and friends, I was able to start collecting backpacks and even school supplies for San Diego kids who could use a little help.  

Though your generosity, we have collected OVER 1,100 new and used backpacks for local kids who can use them!  We have also supplied loads of school supplies that we fill the backpacks with.

Collections have now ended for 2023 and most backpacks have already been distributed to schools and organizations around San Diego.  Please see the gallery for some photos.

For the 3rd year in a row, thank you all SO MUCH for your support and donations!

I'm working on setting up a new nonprofit www.set4school.org which will allow me to increase the reach of my mission of helping kids get prepared for school!  

Stay tuned!

Kalia