At this year’s Stuff the Bus event, something really special happened. Among the many generous donations, two local donors arrived with backpacks filled with supplies and smiles that said it all.

They weren’t just donating for the sake of giving. They were giving from lived experience.

One of them shared, “We were those kids… we’ve waited a long time to be able to do this.”

Having grown up benefiting from programs just like ours, they knew how powerful it is to walk into school feeling prepared. And now, standing on the other side of that story, they were ready to give back to today’s students. They also own a business that we’d love to give a shoutout to.

Why the Backpack Program Matters

The Backpack Program is about more than notebooks and pencils. It is about giving kids confidence. When students start school with everything they need, they can focus on learning, making friends, and building their futures rather than worrying about what they do not have.

This program sets kids up for success. It lightens the load for families, reduces stress, and sends a clear message: our community believes in you. That kind of encouragement can make all the difference in a child’s school year.

The Power of Paying It Forward

The story of these donors is just one example. Every year, we see people who once accessed United Way Bruce Grey programs return to give back, whether through the Backpack Program, Outreach fundraisers, or other supports. It is proof that when we lift each other up, it ripples forward.

Generosity does not always come from those with the most. It often comes from those who remember what it felt like to receive help when it mattered most.

Community in Action

From businesses like Fairways Lawncare Services to individuals who have walked the journey themselves, the community steps up every year. Stuff the Bus is more than a back-to-school drive. It is a celebration of care, kindness, and connection.

And thanks to every single donor, more kids across Bruce Grey are starting this school year ready to succeed.