United Way Golden Horseshoe brought volunteers and community partners in Niagara together to prepare 2,500 backpacks filled with school supplies for Niagara students for the 2026-2027 school year. United Way has been leading the Backpacks for Kids program in Niagara since 2002.
The beginning of a new school year can be an exciting time for students and families. For those facing financial pressures, the cost of backpacks, school supplies, clothing and other essentials can make this time of year quite stressful. The aim of Backpacks for Kids is to help students begin the school year feeling prepared, confident and ready to learn.
On August 26, 2026, volunteers in Niagara assembled 2,000 elementary and secondary school backpacks for local schools. An additional 500 backpacks for community organizations were packed separately by labour union partners. With support from Niagara Region Transit, completed backpacks were delivered to the District School Board of Niagara and Niagara Catholic District School Board.
Backpacks for Kids is made possible through the generosity of local businesses, labour partners, service clubs and community organizations that come together to ensure Niagara students have the tools they need to start the school year strong.
Click here to access Backpacks for Kids Helps Niagara Students Start the School Year Ready to Learn
