VOA-GNY Celebrates Operation Backpack Investment in FY27 Budget

JULY 2, 2026—Volunteers of America-Greater New York released the following statement in response to the FY27 Budget and Operation Backpack funding:

“Volunteers of America-Greater New York is deeply grateful to the New York City Council for investing $250,000 in Operation Backpack through this year’s budget. This investment puts VOA-GNY on track to again provide backpacks and classroom materials to every child living in a NYC shelter. 

Each year, Operation Backpack helps remove one immediate barrier to success for students in shelter by providing the supplies they need before the first day of school. For a child facing the instability of homelessness, having the right supplies boosts educational outcomes and provides a source of confidence and belonging. 

Following a year where as many as 1 in 7 public school students experienced homelessness, this funding sends an important message to those students and their families: New York City values their education and is committed to helping them start the school year strong. 

We thank the City Council for recognizing the importance of this work and for standing with students whose potential should never be limited by their housing circumstances. With this support, VOA-GNY can continue bringing partners together to help thousands of New York City children begin the school year prepared to learn and thrive.”