STEAM-Ready Backpacks for K–12 Students

K-12 STEAM education

San Fernando Valley East LA

Expand existing project, program, or initiative (expanding and continuing ongoing, successful work)

In Los Angeles and beyond many K–12 students in under-resourced communities begin school without the essential supplies they need to fully participate and succeed especially in STEAM subjects that require hands-on learning. This lack of access affects more than grades it impacts confidence engagement and long-term opportunity. At the Sydney Paige Foundation we believe every child deserves high-quality tools that reflect their potential not low quality items that make them feel less than. That is why we focus on quality before quantity to protect the dignity of each student we serve. Providing backpacks school supplies and age-appropriate STEAM kits reduces stress improves attendance and helps close the opportunity gap. Through trusted community partnerships we empower students to feel seen included and capable of achieving success in the classroom and in life.

The Sydney Paige Foundation provides high-quality backpacks, school supplies, and age-appropriate STEAM kits to K–12 students in under-resourced communities throughout Los Angeles. To date, we have helped over 300,000 students gain access to the essential tools needed for academic success and confidence. We partner with Title One schools, community organizations, grass roots organizations and foster youth programs to reach students who face significant barriers to learning, especially in STEAM subjects that require hands-on engagement. We carefully select durable, high-quality backpacks and supplies that protect student dignity and foster a sense of worth. Through a valued partnership with with a top STEAM kit maker we include kits designed to spark curiosity and build skills across science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. With additional support, we aim to serve thousands more students, expanding the frequency and reach of these vital resources. Our goal is to close the opportunity gap by empowering students to fully participate, feel included, and build a foundation for lifelong success.

Our vision for success is that every K–12 student we serve starts the school year with more confidence, feeling prepared, eager to learn, and better able to keep up. We want them to have the tools and self-belief to fully engage and thrive in their education. Success means more than providing backpacks and supplies; it means helping students feel valued and easing the stress on families. Beyond academics, we recognize the relief these resources bring, parents don’t have to choose between school supplies and essentials like food or rent or decide which child receives what they need. These benefits cannot be measured but are deeply felt. Because we focus on high quality, our backpacks and supplies may support students for more than a school year, while our STEAM kits inspire curiosity and introduce new skills and ideas that can shape their futures in lasting ways. Through this work, we build stronger students and families in Los Angeles in ways that extend far beyond the classroom.