Many families in the Katy community still face challenges meeting basic school needs, and Compassion Katy is working to make a difference through its annual backpack drive, Operation Back 2 School.

This is the tenth year that the nonprofit has conducted the drive, distributing 3,000 backpacks last year. This year’s goal is 3,200, according to the group’s Facebook page. To date, the organization has served 18,150 students, according to its website.

“Compassion Katy, alongside Katy ISD and Title 1 Elementary school counselors, is actively registering economically disadvantaged children in 19 Title 1 elementary schools,” according to the website. “With 10,500 elementary students eligible for free or reduced meals, many families struggle to secure the basic needs of living in our community. Together, we bring our attention, resources, and presence to provide value to the lives of under-resourced children by ensuring that each child commences the academic year dressed for success. By providing basic school supplies we not only alleviate the financial strain on families but also pave the way for enhanced learning opportunities, dignity, and hope for a future.”

For $50, donors can equip a student with a backpack and essential school supplies, helping bring dignity, confidence, and readiness to the classroom. To donate or to learn more, go to compassionkaty.org/ob2s.

Compassion Katy is a 501(C)3 nonprofit organization that revitalizes the community by collaborating with local churches, organizations, nonprofits, businesses, and individuals to love, care for and serve economically disadvantaged children.