About Us
Backpack Rewrap, Inc. is a not-for-profit organization founded in 2022, based on my passion to help thousands of adults and children in need across the country and world. My grandparents are cofounders of Aarti Foundation, Inc., a 501(c)3 non-profit charitable organization with a mission to help others in need in the U.S. and abroad. From a young age I was exposed to the importance of giving back to the community. When I was in elementary school, I donated my school supplies such as backpacks and lunch boxes to children in India. I will always remember the first time I donated my gently used backpack; the smile on the little girl’s face made me realize there are so many children who deserve to have the same resources I am fortunate to have.
Many people have gently used yet functional backpacks cluttering the house, and they don’t know what to do with them. Some kids may get a new backpack for the school year even though their previous backpack is in good condition. Adults challenged by homelessness can use a backpack to keep essential items until they find stability.
We at Backpack Rewrap, Inc. take it a step further by helping adults and children in our community while simultaneously making an environmental impact. Recent data shows 85% of backpacks are thrown into landfills, accounting for approximately 5% of landfill space. Donating an essential tool, such as a backpack or lunchbox, can build confidence and help kids succeed in school. It can also help adults get back on their feet. Reusing and recycling items reduce the need for new resources. If we all take small steps to go green daily, we can achieve our goal of reducing our carbon footprint.
Please join our cause and give back a backpack today!
Anika Tolat
President and Founder
Mission
The Mission of Backpack Rewrap, Inc.
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Distribute gently used backpacks to adults and children in underserved communities
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Partner with non-profits who accept gently used backpacks to fund programs in their communities
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Reuse and recycle backpacks to reduce waste in landfills
Get Involved
Are you interested in becoming a Backpack Rewrap leader in your region? Become an ambassador and help make a difference in your community!
Your name will be listed on the website as a Backpack Rewrap Ambassador.
If you are a student you may receive community service hours.
How to Start a Backpack Drive
Contact the following centers in your region to see if they accept used, functional backpacks:
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Schools
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Day Camps
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Adoption Agencies and Foster Homes
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Religious Organizations
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Homeless Shelters
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Recycling Centers
Other ideas:
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Ask friends to work on a backpack drive together
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Organize a drive through a club
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Post the backpack drive event date on social media
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Send an email to your contacts
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Get permission to hang posters in your school and place collection bins in the lobby
Before donating your favorite backpack, please make sure it is functional and presentable!
Complete reporting form and email to info@backpackrewrap.org