How Backpacks and School Supplies Empower Children

Starting the First Day of School Right

For millions of children around the world, the first day of school brings excitement, hope, and a brand new backpack filled with school supplies to tackle the year ahead. However, for many families facing financial hardship, affording these essential items can be an overwhelming burden. The cost of notebooks, pencils, folders, crayons, and backpacks quickly adds up, and without them, children can feel unprepared and discouraged before they even enter the classroom.

A backpack is more than just a bag. It’s a symbol of readiness. It gives a child the confidence to participate, learn, and thrive. Access to basic school supplies plays a critical role in a child’s ability to succeed academically and emotionally. When students are equipped with the tools they need, they are more likely to attend school consistently, engage in classroom activities, and feel a sense of pride in their education.

That’s why back-to-school supply drives are so powerful: They level the playing field and give every child a fair chance at success.

Thousands of Disadvantaged N.J. Students Lack Essential Resources

With an 18-and-under population of 2,015,561, New Jersey ranks #11 in the United States for the largest number of residents under the age of 18. Of this massive population of children:

• 13% — more than a quarter of a million — live in households below the federal poverty level, a benchmark that was set at $32,150 per year for a family of four as of early 2025.
• 1 in 8 NJ children experiences food insecurity, meaning they may not know where their next meal is coming from.

These alarming statistics underscore the stark reality that tens of thousands of students across the state begin each school year at a disadvantage, not because of a lack of potential, but because of a lack of basic resources.

While New Jersey may be one of America’s most affluent states, there are still far too many families overwhelmed by rising costs of living, more limited local services, and resource-strapped school districts. The need within underserved communities is urgent and undeniable.

In many low-income households, families struggle to afford basic necessities, like school supplies, backpacks, food, clothing, and hygiene items. Without adequate support, these students are more likely to fall behind academically, experience chronic absenteeism, and suffer from low self-esteem. The lack of something as simple as a backpack or pencils can send a child the message that they are not ready, not equal, or not worthy.

This is the reality for far too many children in New Jersey. And while the state may be perceived as affluent overall, the need within its underserved communities is urgent and undeniable.

Embrace Relief’s Annual Backpack and School Supply Drive Empowers Students to Succeed

At Embrace Relief, we believe that every child deserves the opportunity to learn and grow, regardless of their economic circumstances. That’s why our annual Backpack and School Supply Drive focuses primarily on disadvantaged, low-income communities across New Jersey, where the need is profound and deeply felt.

Each year, thanks to the generosity of donors and volunteers, we distribute 1,500+ backpacks filled with essential supplies to schools and youth centers in high-need areas – from Newark to Wildwood and beyond. These donations go directly into the hands of students who need them most, offering not just physical tools for learning but also emotional support and encouragement.

A filled backpack can mean the difference between a child starting school feeling empowered or ashamed. It sends the message: You matter. Your education matters. You are not alone.

And the impact resonates beyond the first day of school. Children who receive supplies from Embrace Relief’s Backpack and School Supply Drives carry a sense of support and confidence with them all year long. Moreover, many parents express deep relief, saying that the assistance eased financial stress and allowed them to use those funds for food or doctors’ appointments.

You can be a part of this change in one or more of the following ways:

• Gift a small donation of $25 to fill a backpack.
• Volunteer a few hours of your time to help pack and distribute supplies.
• Drop off to donate in-kind backpacks and school supplies.

Together, we can equip New Jersey’s youth with the tools and confidence to build a brighter future.