Students Start the School Year With Free Gear

Over 2,300 of Albuquerque kids are all set for school to start after attending the City’s Department of Youth and Family Services (YFS) annual Cruzin’ Into the School Year event. Students from preschool through 12th grade received free backpacks and got to "shop" from numerous school supplies, choosing what they needed most for the upcoming school year.

"We want every student to show up for class feeling prepared and confident," said Mayor Tim Keller. "This event makes sure no one has to stress about back-to-school basics."

Now in its ninth year, the event once again helped ease the cost of school shopping while creating a fun and memorable experience. Rather than receiving pre-packed bags, students used tickets to select items that best fit their specific needs.

"Watching students pick out their own supplies is one of the most rewarding parts of this initiative," said YFS Director Jess Martinez. "It makes them excited for school and helps families stretch budgets during an expensive time of year – and an expensive time in general."

The event was made possible through the generous support of community sponsors. Bank On Burque provided more than 2,300 backpacks, while Presbyterian Turquoise Care, UNM Hospital, and Optum donated over 30,000 school supplies. A Better U Academy contributed 1,000 haircut vouchers, and Coyote Gravel donated 200 shoe and grocery gift cards along with prizes including PlayStation consoles, Beats headphones, and Nintendo Switch consoles through their dunk tank, making both events super fun for youth and families.

For more information about other Youth and Family Services programs, visit cabq.gov/family.