Backpacks 4 SA Kids is a beacon of hope for South Australian children and families most in need.

Following a tragic loss, Founder and CEO of Backpacks for SA Kids, Rachael Zaltron, recognised the critical need to ensure that every child could experience the joy of essential items regardless of their circumstances. From this seed of compassion after losing people too soon, Backpacks 4 SA Kids was formed to " make the minutes count”.

For some of these children, it is the first time they have ever had new clothes or toys.

Since its inception in 2012, the organisation has evolved significantly, growing from a humble initiative to supporting over 94,000 children. At the heart of their mission lies a commitment to addressing the specific challenges children and families face in crisis. Recognising the profound impact of poverty, homelessness, and domestic violence on young lives, Backpacks 4 SA Kids is committed to providing tangible assistance and support where it's needed most.

Through providing essentials such as clothes, backpacks, metro cards, sleeping bags, toiletries, chargers, and DV support, Backpacks 4 SA Kids aims to alleviate some of the burdens these vulnerable communities face. By offering these essentials, the organisation empowers individuals to navigate their challenges with resilience and dignity, ultimately helping them build brighter futures.

Partnerships, such as the one RED Appointments has with Backpacks 4 SA Kids, have proven instrumental in enhancing their impact, providing both financial support and invaluable resources.

The community is the biggest comfort.

Central to their approach is recognising that it takes a village to support those in need. With three full-time team members and a staggering 2,000 volunteers, including 120 weekly volunteers, Backpacks 4 SA Kids operates as a community-driven endeavour. Their efforts extend beyond urban centres, with 30% of the programs being provided, distributed to the regional areas of South Australia ensuring that support reaches far and wide.

Knowing that Backpacks 4 SA Kids is there to help often gives people the confidence not to re-enter risky circumstances. Engagement with the community is vital in raising awareness and garnering support. With the assistance of ambassadors like David Campbell and Anna Meares, Backpacks 4 SA Kids utilises various channels to shed light on the issues facing children in South Australia.

Amidst the challenges, there are countless moments of reward and inspiration. From witnessing a recipient’s journey to self-sufficiency and university graduation to the simple joy of teaching a child how to use soap, each success story reaffirms the organisation's purpose and the difference it makes in the lives of those it serves.

Delivered with love.

The 0-16 backpacks are labelled “Packed with Love”. Before each soft toy is placed in the bags, it is hugged with love by a volunteer, embodying the care and warmth that Backpacks 4 SA Kids aim to deliver. These tender moments capture the compassion infused into every donation.

Collaboration is key to Backpacks 4 SA Kids' success, and they prioritise partnerships based on shared values and a commitment to collective impact. As the proverb says, "If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together." This ethos guides their approach, emphasising adaptability and cooperation.

The communities' collective spirit fuels leadership at Backpacks 4 SA Kids. The team remains motivated and inspired in its mission by fostering a sense of purpose and emphasising the power of making a difference.

Backpacks 4 SA Kids need a new home.

In order to thrive in the future, Backpacks 4 SA Kids needs a new warehouse to continue their important work.

As a non-profit organisation, Backpacks 4 SA Kids relies heavily on the community's active involvement and support to fulfil its mission. However, none of its endeavours can thrive without a suitable warehouse space to sustain its daily operations. Now, more than ever, securing a permanent warehouse space is paramount to ensuring the organisation's ongoing success and commitment to assisting children and families in need.

Australian of the Year nomination as a Local SA Hero!

Rachael Zaltron’s 2023 Australian of the Year nomination serves as a testament to the effectiveness of their work and reinforces their commitment to advocating for children's welfare. With support from partners and the community, Backpacks 4 SA Kids continues to adapt and evolve, ensuring they can meet the changing needs of those they serve.

For individuals looking to make a difference, Backpacks 4 SA Kids offers various support avenues, including money, skillsets, and warehouse space donations. Every contribution, no matter how small, has the power to transform the lives of children and families in need, making every moment count.

To see some of the ways your small contribution could make a big difference to people in need, visit:

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Here are some of the ways you can contribute to make a difference:

  • Warehouse acquisition support
  • Donations
  • Recurring donations
  • Volunteering time & skills
  • Business partnerships
  • Promoting awareness
  • Community In-Kind Donations

Please visit https://backpacks4sakids.org/ for more information.