Returning Home Backpack Drive

I was naked and you gave me clothing. I was sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison and you visited me.

Matthew 25:36

Every year around Christmas, we gather with individuals and organizations from our community to pack backpacks as gifts for men and women recently released from prison. This initiative reflects our commitment to showing we care, as we believe that even a small gesture can make a significant difference. The backpacks contain essential items and serve as a point of connection, allowing us to reach out to those we may be able to assist further through the Life Restoration Program.

With the support of the Mecklenburg County Sheriff's Office, Elevation Church, and the North Carolina Department of Public Safety, we have been able to assist 400 formerly incarcerated individuals during their transition by distributing backpacks filled with critical clothing and hygiene necessities upon their release.

Over the years, we have donated backpacks to the Piedmont Correctional Institution, the Center for Community Transitions, Exodus Homes in Hickory, NC, and Walker State Prison in Rock Spring, Georgia. Our goal is to increase the number of backpacks we supply and reach even more men and women across the state and beyond.

We are currently seeking donations of backpacks and essential hygiene products, as well as financial contributions. Additionally, individuals in the greater Charlotte area can volunteer to help us pack the backpacks. On December 7th, we will spend the morning packing backpacks, enjoying fellowship, and sharing lunch at Tabbris Event Space. Please check out the resources below for more information on how you can get involved.

Ways to Donate

Backpacks and Items

If you want to give basic supplies like a backpack, interview outfit, underwear, and toiletries, we've provided a list of links to items that can be purchased as well as shipping information. Simply click on the button below.

Financial Contributions

For just $50.00, you can provide a backpack full of resources and help a formerly incarcerated citizen reenter the free world with dignity. Simply click the button below to go to our Giving page and choose Returning Home Backpack Drive as the fund to which you'd like to make a donation.

Volunteer

Change a Story. Change a Destiny

We need volunteers to assist with the preparation of Returning Home Backpacks. Join us from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, December 7th at Tabbris 1300 South Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28203.
Lunch will be served immediately following, so be sure to RSVP by clicking the link below.
We are looking forward to a terrific day of fun and fellowship while serving our  returning citizens.