The Hawaii Police Department is proud to participate again in a backpack drive for children who cannot afford to buy them. As in previous years, all police stations around the island will double as drop-off points for persons interested in helping children in need. Backpacks may be dropped off between July 8 and Aug. 30.
The Hawaii Police Department is proud to participate again in a backpack drive for children who cannot afford to buy them. As in previous years, all police stations around the island will double as drop-off points for persons interested in helping children in need. Backpacks may be dropped off between July 8 and Aug. 30.
“I again ask anyone who has backpacks their child is no longer using to donate them to this worthy cause,” said Police Chief Harry Kubojiri. “In past years your generosity has proven that the aloha spirit is alive and well when it comes to opening our hearts to children in need.”
This is the fifth consecutive year the Police Department has worked in partnership with HOPE Services Hawaii (formerly known as the Office of Social Ministry) and From Kids For Kids in the collection and distribution of these items.
Backpacks have been identified as the most requested non-food item for charities in Hawaii. The donated backpacks will be distributed to children at women’s shelters, homeless shelters and transitional housing facilities around the Big Island.
Hope Services Hawaii provides a continuum of homeless and transitional programs from outreach to emergency shelters, including permanent supportive housing placements.
From Kids For Kids was founded in 2006 by Big Island resident Nani Welch-Keliihoomalu, then 10, who was responsible for distributing backpacks containing books, clothing, art and school supplies.