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At Wanta Thome, we believe preparation matters, from the workplace to the very beginning of a child’s educational journey. We understand that having access to the right resources and support can make a meaningful difference for individuals and families.
That’s why last year, Wanta Thome launched Project Backpack, a community initiative designed to help local families with the financial pressure that comes with back-to-school season. In our first year, we provided 500 backpacks filled with essential school supplies to K–12 students and families in the Frogtown neighborhood.
This year, we’re bringing Project Backpack back and expanding our efforts. We’ll be providing 750 free backpacks filled with school supplies to local K–12 students, along with an afternoon of activities, food, and community fun.
Join us on Friday, September 4, 2026, at West Minnehaha Recreation Center to receive a free backpack and enjoy an afternoon with the community. In partnership with Feeding Frogtown, our goal is simple: help local students start the school year with the supplies they need to feel prepared and ready to learn.
Each backpack will be packed with essential school supplies, including:
These supplies are selected to help meet the everyday needs of K–12 students as they prepare for the new school year.
When: Friday, September 4, 2026 | 2:00–5:00 p.m., or while supplies last
Where: West Minnehaha Recreation Center, 685 W. Minnehaha Ave., Saint Paul, MN 55104
Backpacks will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Any K–12 student is welcome to participate.
Students must be present to receive a backpack, or parents must verify the child’s attendance with the school name and Student ID.
Parents and students will be asked to complete a registration form upon arrival. After registering, participants will receive a ticket to collect their backpack and St. Paul Saints ticket package.
Households with multiple students may receive one backpack per eligible student, while supplies last.
Project Backpack is more than a school supply giveaway. Families can enjoy a variety of activities and community resources throughout the afternoon, including:
These activities are provided with the help of our community partners, including Feeding Frogtown.
Wanta Thome has prepared 750 backpacks for local K–12 students. Backpacks will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis beginning at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, September 4.
Because supplies are limited, we encourage families to arrive early.
To receive a backpack:
Project Backpack is part of Wanta Thome’s ongoing commitment to supporting education and our local community. We believe access to resources and opportunities can help students and families move forward with confidence.
By returning for a second year and increasing the number of backpacks from 500 to 750, we’re proud to expand Project Backpack and provide additional support to Twin Cities families during the back-to-school season.
We’re grateful to Feeding Frogtown, Frogtown Community Center, and the other community partners who help make this event possible. We look forward to welcoming local students and families for another afternoon of school supplies, activities, food, and community connection.
Having what you need on the first day of school can make a difference. Project Backpack is our way of helping more students start the school year prepared and ready for what comes next.
