LWSD Back-to-School donations more than tripled amid growing need
As students settle into their desks for class, the sounds of backpacks unzipping fills the air. A new backpack can carry more than books and pencils—it can carry a sense of belonging and security that Lake Washington School District (LWSD) and its partners want to ensure all students have access to. This August, more than 2,000 LWSD students received free school supplies at the annual Back-to-School Jam, held at Juanita High School. Attendees included over 100 pre-registered students from Sammamish.
The Jam followed the district’s Back-to-School Supply Drive. The events were organized by LWSD, the Lake Washington Schools Foundation (LWSF), and local community organizations.
Before the launch of the supply drive in 2021, families often had to make difficult choices between school supplies and life essentials.
“If it came down to buying food or school supplies, they chose food. If it was between paying rent or purchasing supplies, rent had to come first,” said Na’eemah Webb, LWSD’s Family Engagement and Community Outreach Coordinator.
According to LWSF communications manager Bonnie Leung, the need for donations more than tripled in the last school year. While the drive supported 550 students in 2024, more than 2,000 students received supplies this year. The demand for donations has grown with the cost of living on the Eastside.
This school year, LWSF reported a record $15,589 in monetary donations for the drive, in addition to donated supplies. The donated funds were used to purchase additional items distributed at the Jam.
The event was supported by volunteers from Timberlake Church and Psarras, a nonprofit organization that helps churches connect with service opportunities. Danny Chang, the Jam’s volunteer coordinator, founded Psarras and was previously an outreach director at Timberlake Church.
“Over the years [the Jam] has grown to bless thousands of children and families in our community,” Chang said.
Chang coordinated volunteers from Timberlake Church to distribute backpacks, notebooks, and other school supplies at the Jam. For him, the event shows the kind of community spirit that Psarras hopes to encourage.
“Needing help is not shameful; it’s a part of life. By coming together with empathy, respect, and no judgment, we create a space where everyone feels valued and supported,” he said.
LWSF supports students year-round with programs like Pantry Packs, which provides weekend meals for students in need. LWSF’s current All in for Kids campaign focuses on expanding Pantry Packs to reach even more students facing food insecurity.
Community members can learn more or contribute at www.lwsf.org/all-in-for-kids.
