This Saturday, July 25, the American Lung Association, alongside presenting sponsor Walmart, will help local students start the year off strong by hosting its 4th annual Backpacks for Bright Futures event at the James Simons Montessori School. Students of all grade levels from 3K - 12 from any area school are welcome to attend and receive a FREE backpack filled with school supplies, asthma and vape-free education resources in English or Spanish. The event is first come, first served and will run from 9:30a-12p on Saturday. The Lung Association distributed 750 backpacks at last year’s event and will provide 750 again this year.
Attendees can connect with medical professionals about lung health, asthma, tobacco use and vaping plus enjoy the community resource fair featuring local partners Walmart, Synovus, MUSC, Lowcountry Food Bank, CARTA, Charleston County Public Library, MAD USA and Kids on Point. Attendees will also be treated to snacks provided by IHOP and family-friendly entertainment featuring DJ Rehab and Backpack Buddy the Elf.
This year, Walmart has supported the Backpacks for Bright Futures initiative with $9,000 in Spark Good Local Grants from Charleston-area stores, including the Supercenters in Charleston, Goose Creek, Mount Pleasant and Summerville.
“Walmart and the Lung Association share the belief that every child deserves to start the school year with tools to support their academic success, health and well-being,” said NaToya Champion, Market Manager at Walmart. “We’re excited to help provide Charleston-area students with essential school supplies and connect families to resources that support a strong, healthy start to the school year.”
Backpacks for Bright Futures was developed and launched in Charleston in 2023. The initiative was created to provide a comprehensive approach to educating students and families about the significance of lung health, particularly the hazards associated with youth vaping, while also addressing financial barriers associated with rising back-to-school costs. To date, the Lung Association and partners have served 1,500 students and will serve an additional 750 students this year, bringing total impact to 2,250 students.
WHAT: American Lung Association’s 4th Annual Backpacks for Bright Futures
WHEN: Saturday, July 25, 9:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. (First Come, First Served)
WHERE: James Simons Montessori School, 741 King St., Charleston, SC 29403
WHO: American Lung Association experts, medical professionals and community partners
WHY: Youth vaping is an epidemic. 1.4 million students report they are currently vaping. Youth who use e-cigarettes are four times more likely to try cigarettes and three times more likely to become addicted to nicotine. The American Lung Association has resources for families, including a conversation guide, at TalkAboutVaping.org.
ON-SITE CONTACT: Margaret Ann Youngs – (843) 814-1415
Photos and videos from last year’s Backpack for Bright Futures event are available HERE.
To request interviews please contact Janye Killelea via email at [email protected] or call (312) 940-7624.
