For many families, back-to-school season brings excitement and a fresh start – but for others, it also brings financial strain. That is where The Salvation Army San Diego steps in, helping to ease the burden and ensure every child starts the school year with confidence and the tools they need to succeed.
In San Diego, The Salvation Army has been a steady source of support for decades, offering school supplies and backpack giveaways to local families in need. Last year alone, nearly 500 kids across the county received brand-new backpacks loaded with essential school supplies – items many families simply could not afford on their own.
“It is more than just notebooks and pencils,” Major Rob Reardon, Divisional Secretary for San Diego County shared with GB Magazine. “It is about showing kids that they matter and giving them the confidence to walk into the classroom ready to learn and succeed.”
The need is very real. With rising costs of living and inflation hitting low-income families especially hard, simple items like backpacks, crayons, or even a toothbrush can feel out of reach. That is why The Salvation Army’s Back-to-School efforts go beyond the basics – supporting the whole child, both in and out of the classroom.
Some of the most-needed items for The Salvation Army’s back-to-school program include everyday classroom essentials like backpacks, lunch boxes, and thermoses to help students carry their supplies with pride. Kids also need a wide variety of writing tools, including pencils, crayons, pens, markers, and colored pencils, along with notebooks, sticky notes, and highlighters to stay organized and engaged in their lessons. Basic office supplies such as staplers, paperclips, tape, scissors, glue sticks, calculators, rulers, and erasers are also in high demand. Additionally, to help students feel their best and focus on learning, hygiene products like hand sanitizer, deodorant, body soap, shampoo, toothbrushes, and toothpaste are included to support their overall well-being both in and out of the classroom.
These supplies are not just “nice to have” – they are essential for learning and self-esteem. A child with a new backpack, sharpened pencils, and a clean start feels more included, more prepared, and more motivated.
“People often overlook how much new school supplies can affect a child emotionally,” Major Amy Reardon, Divisional Secretary for San Diego added. “When a student walks into school with a fresh set of supplies, they feel seen. They feel like they belong. That kind of confidence is just as important as any textbook.”
Donations from the community are what make this possible. Whether it is a box of crayons or a bulk pack of glue sticks, every item helps. Volunteers are also crucial, helping to sort, pack, and distribute supplies directly to families in need.
The Salvation Army’s mission is rooted in service, compassion, and dignity – and their back-to-school program is a shining example of that mission in action. To join the effort and help a child be the best student they can be, visit www.sandiego.salvationarmy.org. A small gift can make a big impact – and help a young student start the school year strong, prepared, and hopeful.
Because when we support students today, we invest in a brighter tomorrow.
