Helping Kids Start the School Year Strong: 300 Backpacks for Students

This August, Planet Youth Calgary teamed up with United Way of Calgary and Area and collaborated with Fluor Corporation, to spread a little extra back-to-school joy. Together, in Thorncliffe/Huntington Hills (one of Planet Youth Calgary's priority communities), we packed and distributed 300 backpacks filled with school supplies to children returning to class.

While we had originally planned for about 300 people, we were blown away to see over 750 in attendance. The turnout showed just how meaningful this support is for families in our community. Thanks to MLA Tejada for additional support and supplies, the Calgary Food Bank for providing snacks and the many community members and volunteers who came together. With all the help and support, we were able to meet the need and make this event a success.

For many families, these backpacks mean more than pencils and notebooks—they represent confidence, readiness, and the excitement of starting a new school year on the right foot.

At Planet Youth Calgary, we believe that investing in our future begins with supporting children today. By creating opportunities like this, we’re helping youth feel prepared, supported, and empowered to thrive.

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