June 10, 2025
Project Backpack: Free School Supplies for Students in the Twin Cities
At Wanta Thome, we believe that preparation is key — not just in the workplace, but from the very start of a child’s educational journey. Every day, our attorneys work with individuals who were unprepared for challenges at work, often due to a lack of resources or knowledge, which can deeply affect families . We see firsthand how common these situations are, especially when people haven’t had access to the right information, support, or tools.
This understanding extends beyond the courtroom. We recognize that being prepared is never a bad move. That’s why this year, we are launching our Project Backpack initiative. Join us on Friday, August 22nd at West Minnehaha Recreation Center to claim your backpack, In partnership with Feeding Frogtown, we’re providing free backpacks filled with essential school supplies to local students who need them. Our goal is simple: ensure that every child starts the school year with confidence and the necessary materials to thrive.
Each backpack will be prepped and packed with:
- Notebook
- Folders
- #2 Pencils (12 Pack)
- Crayons (24 Pack)
- Eraser
- Pencil pouch
- Scissors
- Glue Stick
- Pencil Sharpener
- An Extra Item we think you will love!
These supplies are carefully selected to meet the basic needs of students from grades K-12, ensuring they have the tools necessary for academic success.
Event Details
- When: Friday, August 22, 2025 | 3:00 – 6:00 p.m.
- Where: West Minnehaha Recreation Center, 685 W. Minnehaha Ave., Saint Paul, MN 55104
Eligibility
Any K-12 student is welcome. Students must be present in order to receive a backpack, or parents must verify child’s attendance with school name/Student ID. Households with multiple students may claim one backpack per child.
What to Expect on-site
Alongside pick-up, families can enjoy hands-on activities, community booths, and complimentary food and fresh produce—provided in partnership with Feeding Frogtown.
How Distribution Works
Backpacks are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
We cannot do this work alone, and we are so thankful to our partners at Frogtown Community Center for helping make this event possible. If you’d like to learn more about this project, our firm, or other educational resources and resources we offer, don’t hesitate to reach out: mjbernard@wantathome.com.
How to Receive a Free Backpack
We have 500 fully prepped backpacks that we will be handing out to student and families on Friday, August 22nd from 3-6pm at West Minnehaha Recreation Center. Any K-12 student is eligible. Backs will be given out on a first come first serve basis.
The pre-registration window has closed.
Students must be present, or parents must verify child’s attendance with school name/Student ID in order to receive a backpack. Households with multiple students may claim one backpack per child.
Our Commitment to Education and Community
This isn’t our first step into education. Wanta Thome has been actively involved in fostering the next generation of top legal talent. From supporting student organizations aimed at building legal skills, sponsoring mock trial programs, to creating equitable access to recreational activities through local tort leagues, we are committed to education at all levels, including providing community resources . Our Workplace Justice Scholarship provides funding and mentorship opportunities to individuals interested in employment justice.
From elementary classrooms to law school lecture halls, we believe building the next generation of workplace advocates starts with preparation, opportunity, and encouragement at every stage. Project Backpack is an extension of the same commitment that drives our legal work. When we fight for fairness in the workplace, we’re advocating for access, dignity, and equal opportunity. This event puts that belief into action — before a lawsuit is ever needed.
Having what you need on day one can change how you see yourself and what you believe is possible.