Each year, Cradles to Crayons-Chicago’s (C2C) Backpack-A-Thon brings together corporate partners to pack thousands of backpacks for local kids. But growing community interest has inspired something new, the first-ever Community Backpack-A-Thon that is open to the public. The fundraising event will be held at the North Center Giving Factory on August 9 and supports C2C’s Ready for Learning initiative, which aims to distribute 100,000 backpacks for the 2025–26 school year. Ticket prices help cover the cost of brand-new backpacks and school supplies – one child’s ticket ($15) covers the cost of one filled backpack and one adult ticket ($30) covers two filled backpacks. C2C is dedicated to breaking down hidden barriers to education and empowering children to feel safe, valued and ready to learn.

Cradles to Crayons-Chicago Community Backpack-A-Thon

• Where: Cradles to Crayons Giving Factory, 2500 W Bradley Pl, Chicago, IL 60618

• When: Saturday, August 9 from 10am – 12pm

• Tickets: Space is limited! Reserve your spot here:  https://www.cradlestocrayons.org/chicago/event/community-backpack-a-thon-2025/

• Additional Info: Learn more at cradlestocrayons.org/chicago/

Photo Credit: Cradles to Crayons