Backpack to School 2016 - Helping Keiki in Need

Last week, I had the privilege of delivering the last of 500 backpacks to Family Promise of Hawaii, one of over 10 organizations helped by Locations Foundation’s 13th annual Backpack to School drive. I’m proud to say that to date over 5,300 backpacks have been given to our keiki! Over the years, various organizations such as The Weinberg Village, Women in Need, Loliana Hale, IHS, and the Boys & Girls Club have been on the beneficiary list of our backpacks.

The focus of Locations Foundation’s Backpack to School drive is to support our less fortunate keiki with some basic school supplies they need in the classroom. While the Locations Foundation has traditionally provided the actual backpacks and some of the supplies that go into the bags, the community has always responded generously to our request to bring the supplies to any one of our 5 Oahu office or 3 retail locations.  

The Backpack to School drive is just one of many events that the Locations Foundation organizes year after year. Having been involved as either the chair or co-chair since 2006, I can honestly say that it’s one of the most well-received efforts by our local community.  

As homelessness increases across the state, and us real estate professionals watch the crazy dynamics of our market, I’m seeing more essential supplies get cut out of family budgets, including school supplies. I learned this year that some elementary school supply lists extend to almost THREE full pages of items! When you add these items up, you’re looking at a bill of at least $50-60.  Add this to the daily needs of food and shelter (especially in Hawaii) and the costs quickly add up. Imagine a family of 2-3 children, or a single mother with 1-2 kids.

I am elated to see so many organizations across the state participate in similar drives for the community. We at the Locations Foundation just try to do our part, and believe that by working together as a community we can make a much larger difference. 

James Chan (R), Partner, ABR Office: (808) 735 - 4200  Cell: (808) 551- 7966 Direct Line: (808) 739 - 4107 E-mail: james.chan@locationshawaii.com Website