Young Lions Provide Free Back-to-School Backpacks in Tampa
Thanks to The Young Lions Youth Organization, as many as 1500 kids will receive free backpacks filled with valuable supplies right in time for the first day of school in Tampa.
The backpack distribution takes place:
Saturday, August 5th at Middleton High School, 4801 North 22nd Street in Tampa, from 10am – 1pm.
Local barbers and stylists offer free back-to-school haircuts so kids can look their best heading back to the classroom.
Students must be present to receive their backpacks, so bring the kids along and enjoy the fellowship.

It’s More Than a Backpack
A new backpack brimming with all the supplies a child needs has been a back-to-school staple for decades. Having the right school supplies can provide numerous benefits for students.
First, it improves organization and productivity. When students have all the necessary supplies, they are better equipped to complete assignments and projects efficiently. This leads to better time management skills and less stress for both students and parents.
Second, having the right school supplies can improve focus and concentration. When students are not distracted by missing or inadequate supplies, they can concentrate on their work more effectively. This leads to better retention of information and improved academic performance.
Also, having the right school supplies can increase motivation and confidence. When students feel prepared and equipped with quality supplies, they are more likely to feel confident in their abilities to succeed academically. This positive mindset can lead to increased motivation to learn and achieve their goals.

Backpack Blues
The issue of students not having the school supplies is a problem that affects many children and families. When students do not have access to the necessary supplies, it can have a significant impact on their education and overall well-being. Without the proper tools, students may struggle to learn and participate in class, which can lead to feelings of frustration and inadequacy.
It can cause distractions and disruptions in class. When students are missing necessary supplies or have inadequate ones, they may need to borrow from classmates or interrupt class to ask for materials.
Having the wrong school supplies can make it difficult for students to complete assignments and projects. This can lead to frustration and stress for both students and parents.
And, having inadequate or missing school supplies can have a negative impact on grades and academic performance. When students are not equipped with the necessary tools to succeed, they may struggle to keep up with their peers and fall behind academically.
In addition to the academic impact, not having school supplies can also take an emotional toll on students. Children who do not have access to the same supplies as their peers may feel embarrassed or ashamed, which can lead to feelings of isolation and low self-esteem.


America’s Free Education Is Expensive
The high cost of school supplies can be a significant financial burden for many families. Backpack prices are up 12% from last year, and supplies cost 15% more – the total coming in at $865 per student this year.
In some cases, families simply cannot afford to purchase the necessary supplies for their children. This can lead to children going without essential items such as pencils, paper, and textbooks.
For families who are struggling financially, the cost of school supplies can be overwhelming. In addition to the cost of supplies, families may also need to pay for uniforms, transportation, school meals, and other expenses associated with attending school.
The Need for Donations
For nonprofit organizations like The Young Lions, who have done Backpack giveaways since 2010, donations play a critical role in providing school supplies to students in need. They rely on donations from individuals and businesses to provide essential items such as backpacks, pencils, and notebooks.
Without donations, many students would go without the necessary supplies they need to succeed in school. By donating even a small amount, individuals can make a significant difference in the lives of students who are struggling to access the supplies they need.
Donating school supplies can have a positive impact on both the donor and the recipient. For donors, giving back can be a rewarding experience that provides a sense of fulfillment and purpose. For recipients, receiving essential supplies can help them feel more confident and prepared for school.
In addition to the emotional benefits, donating school supplies can also have a practical impact on a student’s academic performance. By providing students with the necessary tools, they are better equipped to learn and participate in class, which can ultimately lead to improved grades and academic success.

How you can help
There are a couple of different ways to donate to The Young Lions Backpack Giveaway.
You can donate directly to Young Lions with the Donate Now button below. A $?? donation provides a fully-stocked backpack to one child.
You can also go to the Amazon Wish List link below and purchase items directly to go to The Young Lions. Mouse pads, wireless keyboards, and ear buds are needed for older students.
Share the post on social media link below and challenge your friends to make a donation. Every little bit helps!
The Young Lions are grateful to Car Credit, and its owner, Steve Cuculich, for his generous support of Tampa’s inner-city kids. Cuculich, who grew up in a low-income Chicago neighborhood remembers his single mom struggling to get school supplies every year. “The Young Lions are giving these kids a level playing field in the classroom,” he says. “All children deserve the resources necessary to get the most out of their education.”