700+ backpacks filled with essentials handed out to Tulsa kids ahead of new school year

Volunteers in Tulsa distribute over 700 backpacks filled with essential supplies, launching local students toward a successful new school year. The operation—a 20-year tradition—is set to boost confidence with a disco-themed party.

Monday, July 28th 2025, 4:56 pm

By: Jayden Brannon

TULSA, Oklahoma -

More than 700 backpacks filled with essentials are being handed out to local kids, thanks to a long-running volunteer effort.

Getting Ready for a New School Year

With the start of school just around the corner, local volunteers are stepping up to make sure students are set up for success—with more than just pencils and notebooks.

Hundreds of backpacks filled with toiletries and clothing items are being distributed to Tulsa students who need a little extra help heading into the new academic year.

What’s Inside the Backpacks

Volunteers with Greater Tulsa Association of Realtors packed hundreds of backpacks with items like toothbrushes, deodorant, combs and more—everyday essentials that can make a big difference in a student’s confidence and comfort.

A Two-Decade Commitment to Tulsa Kids

The event is organized by the Greater Tulsa Association of Realtors, which has hosted the backpack stuffing party for 20 years.

The group partners with Family & Children’s Services to fill and distribute the backpacks to kids across the city.

Volunteers say this long-running tradition is about more than just supplies—it’s about building up the next generation.

Why It Matters

“I think the biggest thing to us is we were looking for a way to help the community and we thought what better way than to start with the kids,” said Shelley Carson with the Greater Tulsa Association of Realtors. “If we can help them get a fresh start to the school year, it’s a confidence boost... and I think that helps everybody.”

The Cost and the Commitment

Each filled backpack costs around $100, and the group is already fundraising for next year’s event. Organizers say thousands of Tulsa students have benefited from the program over the years.

Celebrating with a Disco Twist

Families picking up the backpacks will get more than just school supplies. Volunteers are hosting a disco-themed party complete with snacks and games to celebrate the start of a new school year.