EducationMatters
Pack Hope: Backpack & Essentials Campaign
As Calgary families navigate the rising cost of living, many students go to school without the basic supplies they need to succeed. For some, even a backpack is out of reach.
For the past few years, EducationMatters has supported thousands of students across 70+ schools from Kindergarten to Grade 12 with backpacks filled with essential supplies thanks to donors like you.
Our goal is for every student to go to their school prepared with the supplies they need. The average cost of one backpack filled with supplies is just $50.
“Some of our students arrive with only a plastic bag. For many, this is the first backpack they’ve ever received.”
Kenneth F. Perrone, Assistant Principal, Douglas Harkness School
Your gift makes a direct impact
Your donation ensures that every student starts school ready to learn—with confidence, pride, and a sense of belonging. By supporting the Backpack Campaign, you’re helping:
Individual students feel prepared and included
Families feel less financial pressure
Our school communities have a more equitable back-to-school experience
2026 Champion Sponsors
$10,000 +
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2026 Supporting Sponsors
$5,000+
2026 Community Sponsors
$2,000+
Media release
Two thousand backpacks, one big goal: helping Calgary public students start school ready to learn
Aug. 20, 2026