YMCA of Greater Houston marks 20 Years of YMCA Operation Backpack

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

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

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

Houstonians can help make a positive impact on the lives of students and contribute to one of the state’s largest back-to-school drives starting June 17 in the following ways:

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

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Funds raised during the YMCA Operation Backpack initiative will directly benefit local youth and be used to purchase backpacks as well as provide opportunities for youth to attend YMCA after school programs to support students’ bright futures. Youth Development, encompassing Out of School Time, Early Care, Teens, and Outreach, stands as a fundamental pillar of the YMCA of Greater Houston. Committed to enriching communities and the individuals within them, the Y diligently offers program services tailored to foster growth and opportunity. The Y strives to provide invaluable opportunities that may otherwise be unavailable 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 about 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