PORTLAND — As the 2024-25 school year is well underway, the Portland Housing Authority is reflecting on the success of its inaugural backpack distribution held in late August. The initiative provided 362 backpacks filled with essential school supplies to students living in PHA-subsidized housing, having a positive impact on families throughout the community as they navigated the start of the school year.
This effort was made possible through strong partnerships with local organizations. The University of Maine Cooperative Extension Cumberland County 4-H program generously donated 150 packed backpacks, while the Portland Police Department’s Community Policing unit contributed 40 more. PHA purchased and packed 240 additional backpacks to meet the needs of as many students as possible. Maine Needs also donated 20 binders to accommodate specific requests from families.
“Starting the school year can be a stressful time for families, especially when it comes to covering the cost of school supplies,” said Teyonda Hall, director of resident services. “By providing these backpacks, we not only ease some of that financial pressure but also send a message to students that their community is behind them. When students feel prepared and supported, it sets the tone for a successful school year, and that’s something we care deeply about. We hope this initiative gave families one less thing to worry about as they focused on their children’s education.”
The backpacks were carefully tailored to meet the needs of students of all ages. Each one contained essential items like pouches filled with pencils, pens, mechanical pencils, sharpeners, glue sticks, scissors, and highlighters. Students also received pocket folders, rulers, reusable water bottles, and notebooks appropriate for their grade level. Additional items such as USB wall adapters and earbuds were provided for older students, while younger children received pencil toppers. Snacks like Mott’s fruit snacks and Goldfish crackers were also included to ensure students had fuel for their day. Special requests, such as lunch boxes and scientific calculators, were met on a case-by-case basis.
PHA plans to make this an annual event, with any remaining backpacks distributed as needed throughout the academic year.
Portland Housing Authority extends its gratitude to the University of Maine Cooperative Extension, Portland Police Department, and Maine Needs, as well as all other contributors and partners who made this initiative possible. By working with community partners to provide school supplies, PHA continues its commitment to improving quality of life, building strong communities, and helping residents achieve personal success. Supporting students in their educational journey not only strengthens families but also helps create a brighter future for the neighborhoods they call home.
Established in 1943, the Portland Housing Authority provides long-term, affordable fair rental housing and assistance to more than 3,000 low-income families, seniors and disabled individuals through its Public Housing and Housing Choice Voucher programs. PHA houses over 6,500 residents, close to 10% of the City’s population. PHA believes that providing safe, quality, affordable housing gives residents the stability and opportunity for success they need and deserve. For more information, visit www.porthouse.org.
