Leveling the Playing Field: Our 2025 Back-to-School Drive Is Here!
At the Stepping Stone Center, we know that a backpack is more than just a bag—it’s a symbol of hope, dignity, and a fresh start. That’s why we’re thrilled to launch our 2025 Back-to-School Supply Drive, a community initiative supporting system-impacted youth and families impacted by incarceration.
This year, our goal is to fill and distribute over 500 backpacks to children of formerly incarcerated parents and justice-impacted families. These backpacks will be packed with essential school supplies, hygiene kits, and early learning materials for young children—ensuring every student we reach walks into the school year with confidence and a sense of belonging.
Why This Drive Matters
For many families navigating the challenges of reentry and economic hardship, back-to-school season can be a stressful and isolating time. School supplies are expensive. Sports fees are out of reach. And for parents working hard to rebuild their lives, these barriers can feel overwhelming.
We believe every child deserves a strong start—regardless of their circumstances. Our drive helps eliminate those barriers while sending a powerful message: you are not alone, and your future matters.
More Than Supplies: Building a Stronger Community
In addition to backpacks and school essentials, the Stepping Stone Center offers wraparound support through our reentry programs, including:
Financial literacy workshops
Mentoring
Employment and housing services
Mental wellness support
Transportation and computer access
Through this drive, we not only support students—we uplift entire families by connecting them to long-term resources and a caring community.
How You Can Help
We’re calling on local businesses, community members, and partners to join us in making this year’s drive a success. You can support in several ways:
Donate school supplies or hygiene kits
Make a financial contribution
Sponsor a backpack ($25 fills one!)
Host a donation box at your business
Volunteer at our distribution event
If you or your company is interested in becoming a sponsor or spreading the word, we’d love to connect!
Together, We Can Break Cycles and Build Futures
At Stepping Stone Center, we believe in second chances—not just for individuals, but for families and entire communities. This Back-to-School Drive is more than a project—it’s a movement toward equity, dignity, and opportunity.
Let’s work together to equip, empower, and uplift the next generation. Because when we invest in their future, we invest in all of ours.
Want to get involved?
Contact us at info@steppingstonecenters.org to learn more or become a sponsor , visit https://givebutter.com/RSpowV to donate or checkout our Amazon wish list https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/18OOB0KMM2O1M?ref_=wl_share.
