1,000 backpacks distributed to low-income families across Alberta ahead of school year

On Saturday, Calgary nonprofits distributed over 1,000 backpacks and school supply packages to low-income families across Alberta as the back-to-school season approaches.

The Calgary Catholic Immigration Society (CCIS), in partnership with Humaniti Foundation and MUHSEN Canada, held its first annual backpack giveaway. A second event hosted by United Way in partnership with Planet Youth distributed backpacks as part of a broader back-to-school fair that brought together organizations offering supports and resources for families.

According to a report by the Retail Council of Canada, parents spend on average $600–$750 per child during the back-to-school shopping season.

For families already stretched thin by rent, utilities and food costs, the programs remove a significant financial barrier. "Even working Canadians are finding it difficult to maintain their regular expenses, and many families have to make the tough decision whether to put food on the table, or to pay rent, or to pay utilities, or to get their kids ready for school," said Nawal Al-Busaidi, director of programs for Humaniti Foundation.

Organizers emphasized that the backpacks carry a message beyond supplies. "For kids also, it's a huge message because, beyond getting a backpack, they are getting the message that the community cares for them," said Hasmik Asmaryan, director of business, employment and training services at CCIS. "Not only confidence, that feeling for the kids that they do belong," she said.

For Peter Gatjalvuotkoal, who arrived in Calgary from South Sudan earlier this year with six children ages 17 and under, the giveaway made a tangible difference. "We are so excited," he said. "Even the kids, they are so happy about that."

CCIS is exploring ways to expand the program each year as demand continues to grow.