The Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) is running a kind and helpful program again this year called “Pack The Backpack.” It’s aimed at helping students from families in need get ready for school by providing them with free backpacks filled with school supplies. The sheriff’s office is now asking the public to donate and support this effort.
What Is the “Pack The Backpack” Program?
“Pack The Backpack” is a school supply donation drive started by BCSO to help local children who need extra support. The program collects supplies and backpacks for kids who are nominated by community groups. These children receive backpacks full of items they need for school—like notebooks, pens, pencils, crayons, and more.
Last year, 150 students received fully packed backpacks through the program, and this year, the Sheriff’s Office hopes to match or even beat that number with the help of generous donors.
How You Can Help
If you’d like to support this cause, you can donate new school supplies or backpacks. Donations will be accepted until July 27. There are three drop-off locations where you can leave your items:
North Substation
Fourth Street, Albuquerque
South Substation
Isleta Boulevard, Albuquerque
East Substation
Tijeras, New Mexico
These locations are open during regular hours, and any contribution—big or small—can help a child feel prepared and confident when school starts.
Community Involvement Matters
The children who benefit from this program are selected by community partners, which include local organizations that know which families are struggling. This ensures that donations go directly to those who need them the most.
The program is not just about school supplies; it’s about showing kids that their community cares. Sheriff’s officials believe that giving students the right tools can help them succeed in school and feel more supported.
With the school year just around the corner, the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office is counting on the public’s help to make a difference. The “Pack The Backpack” program is a simple but powerful way to support education and give children in need a strong start. Donations are open until July 27, so if you can, drop off a backpack or some school supplies and be a part of something meaningful.
