With the new school year underway, we’re looking back on another successful Back-to-School Backpack Giveaway. This year brought our highest participation since the program began, and it reflects what the giveaway continues to mean to HFA families getting their keiki ready for the classroom.
Distributing 368 Backpacks Statewide
HFA distributed 368 backpacks this year, including the first backpacks provided to our Summer Student Pathways cohort. Compared with 215 backpacks in 2025, participation grew 71 percent.
| Grade level | Backpacks |
|---|---|
| K–6th | 210 |
| 7th–12th | 148 |
| Summer Student Pathways cohort | 10 |
| Total | 368 |
Backpacks went home with team members on Oʻahu, Maui, Kauaʻi, and Hawaiʻi Island — every island where our ʻohana lives and works.
Sending a Note With Every Backpack
The thank-you note included with each backpack was well received, and many team members shared their appreciation for the program.
Mahalo to Cole and Aiden
A special mahalo nui loa to Cole and Aiden, who helped pack backpacks at every single packing session. Their dedication and steady support played a key role in making this year’s giveaway a success.
Investing in our people is not just something we do at work—it’s something we carry home with them. Plans are already underway to grow the program for next school year.
Interested in joining our ʻohana? Explore current openings on our Careers page.
