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Backpack Challenge

Event Info

The Backpack Challenge is an annual community effort led by Valley Youth House in partnership with the Philadelphia Department of Human Services.  This campaign raises funds for school/dorm supplies and tuition assistance for youth in foster care, and ensures that every young person who is a member of the Achieving Independence Center (AIC) and enrolled in college receives as much support as possible to eliminate barriers to academic success. The AIC provides a space where youth in dependent care can be connected, educated, and empowered as they strive toward independence.

Heading back to high school or starting college should be an exciting time. However, for youth who are homeless or living in foster care, it can be an extremely stressful time. The Backpack Challenge offers the opportunity for Philadelphia area businesses and residents to support our young people using various platforms.

Every gift is an opportunity to make an impact on the future of a young person starting college this fall. Valley Youth House is accepting donations for the Achieving Independence Center as part of our back-to-school initiative this summer.

Items Your Gift Can Support:

  • $100 –  (1) Partial Care Package
  • $250 – (1) Full Care Package
  • $500 – (1) Laptop or Textbook Support
  • $1000 – (2) Laptops or Textbook Support
  • $2500 – (5) Laptops or Tuition Assistance
  • $5000 – (10) Laptops or Tuition Assistance

Gift-In-Kind Donation Items:

  • ChromeBook Laptops
  • Towels (all sizes)
  • Sheets (twin sized)
  • Cleaning Supplies (disinfectant wipes, hand sanitizer)
  • Shower Caddy w/ Hygiene Care Items
  • Gift Cards (any amount)
    • Grocery Stores or Restaurants
    • Target, Amazon, IKEA

Click here to Donate or Text BPC2022 to 76278

Mailed checks can be made out to Valley Youth House (memo note: BPC 2022) and sent to the following address:

Attn: Development Department
Valley Youth House
1500 Sansom Street, Suite 300A
Philadelphia, PA 19102

For questions or to schedule a donation drop-off, please contact Amanda Molinaro, Associate Director of Development & Marketing at amolinaro@ValleyYouthHouse.org or 484.767.5445.