Backpacks For The Street is a 501c3 public charity, and national grassroots movement to bring compassion and dignity to people living on the streets, by providing backpacks filled with life necessities, including: food, clothing, toiletries, hygiene products, gloves, emergency thermal blankets, handbooks with local food pantries, soup kitchens and shelters, and much more.
Since March 2018, BFTS has given out more than 1,700 backpacks, over 12,000 maxi-pads and tampons, and 8,000 Mylar blankets.
We are out on the streets every day. Homelessness doesn’t take a sick day, a holiday or a snow day. Nor do we. It is 24/7. There is always someone in need of assistance.
“We operate with one mantra: ‘a person’s circumstances does not make them any less worthy of kindness and compassion, or to be treated with dignity and respect,'” says Jeffrey Newman, co-founder of BFTS. “We know a backpack isn’t going to get them off the street, and it’s not going to cure homelessness. But it gives people hope. It lets them know they’re not invisible, and they are not alone. You can’t imagine the impact that can make.”
Homelessness in New York City is at an all-time high.
In January 2019, New York City accounted for 14% of the nation’s homeless population, with nearly 71,000 people living in NYC shelters, including 22,511 children, up 82% from 10 years ago.
Nearly 5,000 people were living on the streets.
BFTS also hands out FemPacks, with feminine hygiene products. Since March 2018, we’ve given out more than 12,000 tampons and maxi-pads. And, we offer BarkPacks, with food and treats for canine companions.
We also give out additional packs of gloves, Mylar blankets, and hand warmers.
Homelessness is a 24/7 epidemic, where someone is always in need. Join the movement, and make a difference.
How Can You Help?
VOLUNTEER: The next BFTS program is February/March 2019. Dates to be announced shortly. We will give out 300-plus backpacks to people living on the streets.
DONATE NOW! Make a tax-deductible donation. 100% of your donation goes directly to help the homeless. Every dollar makes a difference.
SHOP AMAZON: Donate from our Amazon Wish List. Shipping is FREE.
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