YMCA Operation Backpack running through Aug. 15

By Landan Kuhlmann landan@theleadernews.com

Earlier this month, YMCA of Greater Houston kicked off its annual initiative called YMCA Operation Backpack, which aims to provide local youth with the necessary supplies for the upcoming school year according to a news release from the organization.

The initiative, which the YMCA said has equipped local youth with the tools necessary to succeed for more than 19 years, hopes to provide backpacks and essential school supplies to Houston-area students for the 2023-2024 school year.

Contributions can be made online at ymcaoperationbackpack.org, by texting “YMCABACKPACK” to 24365, or by making a donation at a local H-E-B – one of the partners for this year’s Operation Backpack. There are two H-E-B locations in the area where local residents can make donations, one at 2300 N. Shepherd Dr. in the Heights and another at 3663 Washington Ave.

The YMCA says that last year’s Operation Backpack helped net 30,000 backpacks along with essential school supplies for the Houston region’s children, and the organization is hoping to match or exceed that total with this year’s initiative. Funds raised through the initiative will be used to purchase supply kits that include packaged school supplies from H-E-B, according to the release.

“The YMCA is able to support thousands of children because of the generous contributions from caring Hous - tonians,” Stephen Ives, president and CEO YMCA of Greater Houston, said in a news release. “Confidence is the foundation for success, and through YMCA Operation Backpack, the

YMCA can instill youth with the confidence they need to succeed in the classroom. The strength of the Houston community brings children one step closer to achieving their dreams.”