Project Backpack is a community-based initiative led by Elgin Community College (ECC) and other event partners to benefit students by offering resources to start the school year. The event will be held in person at ECC on August 2, 2025 from 9 am to 1 pm in the Building J Events Center.
Project Backpack is partnering with Greater Family Health and Familia Dental to provide physicals, immunizations, dental exams, and dental cleanings on-site! Visit the Eligibility page to find what you need to bring to receive care.
Project Backpack provides backpacks, school supplies, and/or resources for students in need who are enrolled at Elgin Community College (District 509) or school districts U-46, D300, D301, D303, or D20 - or reside therein. Backpacks are distributed before the start of the fall school year and are also available via the ECC Spartan Pantry for ECC students.
In Their Own Words
More than just an annual supply drive, Project Backpack means a lot to everyone in whatever capacity they participate.
In Their Own Words
Gary Christenson, ECC Professor Emeritus
Volunteer
"The excitement on the kids' faces said it all. It's easy to forget how precious a box of crayons might be to some children. I feel renewed in witnessing that. Please put me down for next year."
Gary Christenson, ECC Professor Emeritus
Taylor Lantz, President/Manager, ECC College Programming Board
Former Participant
"As a child, I was the student who had to wait in line at similar backpack distribution events. My parents relied on others' generosity to make my school year a good one. This time, I got to be on the other side of the event: giving backpacks to those young children."
Taylor Lantz, President/Manager, ECC College Programming Board
Elgin Community College Faculty Association
Sponsor
"We hope to provide backpacks and school supplies to all students in the district who need assistance and link families to some of the many services available to them. Our children are our future, and the power of education fuels that future!"
Elgin Community College Faculty Association
Richard Green, Foundation Board Member, Professor Emeritus, Alumni of ECC
Community Member
"I have witnessed parents arriving very early and braving the August sun in line to secure backpacks filled with school supplies for their children. I appreciate that the Project Backpack is well organized."
Richard Green, Foundation Board Member, Professor Emeritus, Alumni of ECC
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