Pack to School began in 2003 as a collaborative effort with the Salvation Army to provide children in need with backpacks and school supplies. This effort is supported by more than 30 state agencies and approximately 40,000 state employees. This incredible generosity will help Arizona’s children succeed in the classroom, and will increase their enthusiasm for learning. The drive has grown to include American Express as a sponsor, and is also supported by FedEx, FreeScale Semiconductor, Mountainside Fitness, Sleep America and Wal-Mart in financial and in-kind donations.

The success of Pack to School has grown each year. During the 2007 drive, more than 10,000 students received school supplies and backpacks. Nearly 3,500 backpacks were donated by state employees, sponsor organizations and community members.

This year the collection will be held from July 1 to July 31. Community members are welcome and encouraged to participate. Anyone wishing to help can drop off supplies at specially marked boxes at any Sleep America, Mountainside Fitness or Wal-Mart location.

For more information please contact:
Melissa Lempke
(602) 542-3485
mlempke@az.gov