Volunteers Making a Difference in the Lives of Teens Experiencing Homelessness or Housing Insecurity
Our Chapter has been providing duffel bags to graduating seniors for decades. Over the past several years, the Chapter has partnered primarily with the Escondido Union High School District (EUHSD) to provide backpacks that may help ease graduating seniors experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity within the school district to transition to living on their own. McKinney-Vento students are identified by the district, are provided a bag with more than 40 items, worth about $400. The items include a personal blender and kitchen tools, sleeping bag and pad, blanket and pillow, towels, solar operated battery pack, first aid and tool kits, personal hygiene and other items, as well as gift cards.
Over the years the duffel bag has morphed into the modern and sturdy large travel-sized backpack filled with these useful items.
This program, like all of our programs, is primarily funded by money raised by the sale of items in our Thrift & Consignment Ship, and by donations and grants.
Volunteers experience a genuine sense of giving back to the community by helping these wonderful and deserving teens.
What Our Volunteers Do:
- Liaise with the district social worker to confirm eligible graduates
- Finalize backpack items
- Shop for and purchase backpack items
- Fill / assemble backpacks
- Present and distribute backpacks
What our partners say about the program
“We are incredibly fortunate to have the support of community organizations like the Assistance League of North Inland County…Our students, particularly those most in need, have benefited tremendously from their programs.” Superintendent Dr. Anne Staffieri