The Corey C. Griffin Foundation’s annual Back-to-School Drive returned to Dorchester on Wednesday, August 19th, providing thousands of local students with essential school supplies and resources to help them prepare for a successful year ahead.

More than 4,000 backpacks are distributed each year through the Corey C. Griffin Foundation’s Back-to-School Drive, the largest event of its kind in Massachusetts. Each backpack is filled with essential school supplies to help kids approach the new school year with confidence, while reflecting the Force of Love for Massachusetts youth that drives the Foundation’s work.

But the day was about much more than backpacks.

Students and families enjoyed an afternoon filled with music, food, games, face painting, ice cream, a photo booth and plenty of fun. A mobile barber helped kids feel fresh and confident for the first day of school, while a DJ and emcee kept the energy and excitement going all day long. But beyond the music, haircuts, and school supplies, the day was filled with laughter, connection, and the kind of joy that Corey brought to everyone around him.

From the moment families arrived, it was impossible to miss the excitement on the faces of Corey’s Kids. Every backpack, every smile and every moment of celebration was a reminder that they have a community behind them cheering them on.

“This event is about making sure our kids know they are supported as they begin a new school year,” said Chandra Clark, President of the Corey C. Griffin Foundation. “With the right supplies, encouragement and love, we’re helping them start the year with confidence.”

A heartfelt thank you goes to the many donors and Corey’s crew volunteers who helped make this year’s Back-to-School Drive possible. We are especially grateful to our partners at Saint John Paul II Catholic Academy Lower Mills and MAMLEO Inc., as well as our key sponsors New Balance, BJ’s Wholesale Club and Staples. It was also amazing to see Brian Scalabrine and Matthew Slater, two of our Corey’s Kids Champions, stop by and show their love and support for Corey’s Kids.

We are also incredibly grateful to New Balance for their continued support of the Corey C. Griffin Foundation and for providing all of the backpacks for this year’s Back-to-School Drive.

Together, we’re helping Corey’s Kids begin the school year with confidence and the support of their community.

To learn more about supporting Corey’s Kids and our partner programs, please contact President Chandra Clark, [email protected].