Each year, the Karsh Center proudly hosts Ready to Learn, our annual back-to-school initiative that ensures children ages 4–13 step into the classroom with confidence, excitement, and the essential tools for success. It’s more than just backpacks—it’s about helping kids feel prepared, inspired, and ready to learn from day one, while easing the financial strain so many parents face at this time of year.

Thanks to the incredible generosity of our donors and supporters, we collected and prepared hundreds of backpacks filled with high-quality school supplies, hygiene items, and helpful community resources—saving families the significant expense and stress of back-to-school shopping. This would not have been possible without the dedication of our amazing volunteers, who spent countless hours assembling each pack with care and attention to detail.

Recognizing the uncertainty and concern many in our community are facing, we adapted the event to ensure families could participate in a way that felt safe and supportive. On our special distribution day, 293 backpacks were delivered directly to 143 registered households—meeting families right at their doorsteps with care and dignity.

We also made sure the impact reached far beyond just that one day:

  • 480 backpacks were shared with our partners at Para Los Niños

  • 316 packs that were donated, not sturdy enough for children’s everyday use as a backpack, were repurposed through our pantry as non-kitchen access bags and hygiene kits

This means more children will be walking into school with the supplies they need—and more parents will feel the relief of knowing their kids are set up for success.

Enjoy a few snapshots from delivery day, made possible by the compassion and commitment of our donors, volunteers, and community partners. Together, we’re helping children start the school year not just ready to learn, but ready to thrive.