How LICH’s Backpack Pirates Event Supports Unhoused Children Across Long Island

Every summer, more than 250 children living in homeless shelters across Long Island come together for a day full of joy, learning, and new opportunities. Backpack Pirates is an annual event designed to give these children a memorable summer camp experience packed with games, activities, and essential school supplies, helping them prepare for the year with brand new backpacks, outfits, and a fun summer story to share in class. The event not only provides a break from daily challenges but also sets kids up to start the school year with confidence and pride.

A Day Full of Fun and Adventure

Backpack Pirates transforms a summer camp into a lively playground, where kids can enjoy a variety of activities designed to spark creativity, build confidence, and just let them be kids for a day. Activities include:

• Sports and Field Games: Soccer, relay races, and other team sports encourage physical activity, teamwork, and friendly competition.

• Arts and Crafts: Creative stations let kids express themselves through art, have fun, and feel proud of what they make.

• Treasure Hunts: Exciting hunts challenge children to solve clues and work together, boosting problem-solving skills.

• Theater Show: A live performance entertains and inspires, giving kids a chance to enjoy storytelling and drama.

• Swimming at the Beach: Supervised sessions provide a refreshing break while teaching water safety.

• Archery: Kids learn focus and patience under expert guidance while trying their hand at archery.

• DJ and Dancing: Music and dance sessions bring energy and fun while helping children build social skills and confidence.

  
  

With so many activities to choose from, every child finds something they enjoy, making the day unforgettable.

Providing Essential School Supplies and New Outfits

One of the most important parts of Backpack Pirates is handing out brand new backpacks filled with school supplies. Each child also receives a new outfit, giving them confidence and something special to start the school year with. Since 2004, this initiative has provided over 20,000 backpacks to students experiencing homelessness across Long Island.

Backpacks include:

• Notebooks and folders

• Pencils, pens, and erasers

• Crayons and markers

• Rulers and scissors

• Calculators and glue sticks

  
  

…and other supplies to help start their school year off on the right foot. These essentials help reduce stress and give children a little boost as they return to school.

How the Community Can Help

Backpack Pirates relies on the generosity of the community to make this event possible. Each summer, a school supplies and backpacks drive collects donations to support the children. Every donation, big or small, makes a difference in a child’s life. By providing these essentials, the community helps break down barriers to education and offers hope for a brighter future.

The Impact Beyond the Event

Backpack Pirates is more than just a day of fun. For many children, it’s a rare opportunity to just be kids—laughing, playing, and enjoying a day without worrying about the stress of living in a shelter. The event builds friendships, boosts self-confidence, and reminds kids that they deserve joy and care, even amidst challenging circumstances.

Children leave the event feeling motivated and prepared for school, carrying not just supplies and new clothes, but happy memories that can last all year.