Custom Backpacks Delight Friendship Circle Children
Back-to-school season begins every fall with the purchase of a new backpack and necessary school supplies. Parents scramble to get their kids ready for a new year, pouring over supply lists. This summer, Friendship Circle alleviated that parental stressor by providing backpacks complete with an assortment of school supplies, specifically tailored to each child’s personal requests.
The project was spearheaded by Lisa Gutkin, a Friendship Circle volunteer who first came up with the idea 17 years ago. Inspired by her grandmother’s devoted care for her uncle with special needs, Lisa wanted to give back to Friendship Circle participants.
“I wanted to honor my grandmother’s memory in a place that would appreciate her struggles,” said Gutkin. “Friendship Circle has created a beautiful community where people feel supported.”
To extend that support, Gutkin enlisted a group of volunteers, each assigned a shopping list for a specific child. Volunteers shopped for backpacks and supplies tailored to the child’s age, needs and color preferences. Some volunteers even added decorations or personalized cards, wishing the children a great and successful school year.
“We know how important it is to have the support of friends and community. That inclusivity is so needed,” said volunteer Rebecca Gold. “I was assigned a 17-year-old student and it was nice that they were specific about the colors and a fidget they wanted. I know how meaningful this is to the kids.”
On the last day of Friendship Circle Camp, children received their backpacks filled with supplies, marking the end of summer and the start of the new school year. Faces lit with joy as their personalized wish lists were fulfilled. Seeing their favorite color or character on a backpack made each child feel loved and special.
“Receiving a backpack and supplies made us feel supported and part of a community that really cares about our kids,” said Adira, the mother of two children who received backpacks. “It was one less thing I had to worry about. We really appreciated Friendship Circle setting up our children for a strong start to the school year.”
Gutkin appreciated hearing the kind words. She said, “It warms my heart. There’s nothing like the first day of school and that first day picture with a new backpack. I am so glad I can be a part of the children’s first day excitement. And it makes me think of my grandmother, bringing me closer to her through this connection with Friendship Circle families. It keeps her memory alive.”
Children began the school year feeling the inclusion and unwavering support from their community, boosting their confidence every step of the way.
“I am so appreciative to Lisa for giving us this opportunity to do a mitzvah,” said Gold. “I’m so in awe of everything Friendship Circle does and how accessible they are to so many people. It feeds our soul and helps us fulfill that mitzvah of taking care of the community and the children.”
