Poverty can have a profound impact on a child’s ability to succeed in school. Research has shown that youth living in economically disadvantaged communities are at greater risk of lower school readiness, low self-esteem, decreased aspirations, and dropping out of school. Many also experience stigma and bullying because of their circumstances. Research has also shown that children who are well equipped with the tools they need to learn are more likely to perform well and graduate.More than ever, these vulnerable children need our joint efforts to help guide them toward a better future. By sponsoring one or more children, you are helping ensure they begin the school year ready to learn, participate, and reach their full potential—regardless of their family's financial circumstances. Together, we can help give every child an equal start.

The complete sponsorship of a child for the Back to School - Equal Start Program includes all of the school materials they need to start the school year on an equal footing. This includes a school bag, lunch box, pencils, crayons, erasers, rulers, scissors, notebooks, binders, and duo-tangs.Here are examples of different sponsorship options and what they provide for the children:$25 - 50: Basic school supplies (pencil case, pencils, erasers, ruler, scissors, notebooks, etc)$75: Binders, duo-tangs, and basic school supplies$100: Lunch box, binders, duo-tangs, and basic school supplies $150: Sponsorship for 1 child**Every additional $150 pays for the sponsorship of another child. **All donations are combined in order to offer every child all the materials they need to start the school year.In addition, for every donation that we receive, a portion will go directly into the Leadership Now program; a program that aims to provide youth with sustainable leadership skills so that they may develop the necessary tools they need to have success in their future social, civic and academic lives. Some of the core-components of the program are; the importance of teamwork, leadership, emotional intelligence, and decision-making. A wide variety of topics are covered in the program including bullying, violence, street gangs, school dropouts, health, the importance of sports, the environment and how to succeed in high school.To donate, fill out the form below. You will be redirected to another page where you can choose the amount you would like to donate. Every donation helps brighten the lives of these children. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts on their behalf!