Just in time for the 2021 back-to-school season, Denver Rescue Mission hosted a backpack distribution event for the children and teenagers whose parents are part of the STAR Transitional Program.
Thanks to a fundraising campaign spearheaded by the Mission’s Young Professionals group, more than $3,200 was raised to provide school supplies for at least 100 kids served by programs at the Mission. The Denver Broncos Youth Center at The Crossing also received an assortment of art supplies to stock their shelves thanks to the campaign.
HALO Branded Solutions generously donated 100 backpacks that were filled with supplies for the back-to-school party.
On Thursday, August 5, the Young Professionals group filled the backpacks with supplies specific to grade levels. Then, they hosted the backpack party by welcoming about 25 children and teens along with their families to hand-pick their backpacks and enjoy an ice cream social.
Following the event at The Crossing, the surplus of backpacks will be given to about 75 children and teenagers served by other programs at the Mission, including Family Rescue Ministry and Family Refugee Services. They will also be distributed at our Ministry Outreach Center to families in need in our community.
For families on the brink of homelessness who must often choose between paying for their living expenses like rent and utilities or purchasing groceries and supplies for their families, these backpacks will make a world of difference.
We are so grateful for the support of our donors, our Young Professionals group and the community at large for helping our youth get prepared and excited to head back to school!
Written by Christine Branson, Events Specialist
