Operation Backpack

Did you know that there are a number of school-age children living in the Delaware Valley who are in danger of becoming homeless or who are already living in a shelter? One of the most devastating consequences of homelessness is the impact it has on children's education. Homeless and homeless-at-risk children face tremendous stigmatization; as a result, they are more likely than students living in more stable home environment to be placed in special education classes and to drop out of school.

Operation Backpack is Volunteers of America's back-to-school drive that asks the general public to bring backpacks to our offices in Collingswood, NJ. The business community participates by engaging their employees in backpack and school supply drives. In addition to giving the children a sense of confidence and hope, Operation Backpack relieves the children's families of a significant financial burden and helps them begin the school year with a brand new backpack.

To complete your donation, we ask you to purchase a new backpack and fill it with school supplies for one child. To find a list of needed school supplies specific to each grade please download this PDF. Once the backpack is purchased and filled, please attach the appropriate label specifying the grade and drop it off to:

Volunteers of America Delaware Valley
235 White Horse Pike
Collingswood, NJ 08107

It's that simple!

For more information about Operation Backpack or ways you can help please contact Kelli Wright or call (856) 854-4660 x138.