Supporting NBC4’s Stuff The Backpack

As students across Central Ohio gear up for the new school year, NBC4’s Stuff The Backpack initiative is celebrating a major achievement. This summer-long school supply drive aims to ensure that students are well-prepared for the academic year. This year alone, the drive successfully collected and distributed over 20,000 backpacks filled with essential supplies, contributing to the program’s impressive seven-year total of 200,000 backpacks distributed.

Photo by Katerina Holmes

The Heart of the Initiative

Since its inception in 2018, NBC4’s Stuff The Backpack has expanded its reach to several school districts across Central Ohio, including Franklin, Licking, Union, and Fairfield Counties. This expansion reflects the drive’s growing impact and the increasing demand for support within local communities. The success of the initiative relies heavily on the efforts of volunteers and the generous support of fiscal sponsors and community partners.

Photo by Anastasia Shuraeva

A Proud Supporter

Zenni has joined the ranks of businesses providing donation support for the Stuff The Backpack drive. As a company committed to giving back to the community, Zenni’s contribution has helped NBC4 reach its ambitious goals. By supporting this initiative, Zenni has underscored its dedication to community service and its role in fostering educational success for local youth.

The Impact of Teacher Contributions

It’s important to acknowledge the broader context in which Stuff The Backpack operates. According to the U.S. Department of Education, a staggering 94% of public school teachers use their own funds to purchase classroom supplies. This statistic highlights the vital role that initiatives like Stuff The Backpack play in alleviating the financial burden on educators and ensuring that students have the tools they need to succeed.

Photo by Katerina Holmes

How You Can Contribute

If you are inspired by the success of NBC4’s Stuff The Backpack and wish to support this cause, visit NBC4i.com/Backpack to get involved. Donations to the drive are 100% tax-deductible through the United Way of Central Ohio, which serves as the fiscal sponsor for the initiative.

The ongoing success of Stuff The Backpack is a testament to the power of community collaboration and the difference that collective efforts can make. With the support of businesses like Zenni and the dedication of countless volunteers, the drive will undoubtedly continue to thrive and support students in Central Ohio for years to come.