Sammy’s Backpacks Summer 2026 Update: A Season of Growth, Partnership, and Hope
Summer 2026 has been one of the busiest and most exciting seasons in the history of Sammy’s Backpacks. From introducing our new bus to forming an important community partnership and preparing thousands of backpacks for children, we’ve been reminded once again of what can happen when a community comes together.
A full 2026 Year in Review will be published this fall after all backpack distributions have been completed, but we wanted to share a few highlights from an incredible summer.
Rotaryfest Parade: Introducing the Sammy’s Backpacks Bus
On July 18, we proudly introduced the Sammy’s Backpacks Bus to the community for the very first time during the Rotaryfest Parade.
Although the permanent graphics had not yet been installed, the bus proudly displayed temporary decals as we celebrated the beginning of an exciting new chapter.
Throughout the parade we handed out candy, colouring activity sheets, information about Sammy’s Backpacks, and even Sammy’s Backpacks T-shirts.
One of the day’s most memorable moments happened halfway through the parade when we decided to give away the 24 decorative stuffed backpacks that had been displayed on the bus. Watching the excitement on the faces of the children—and their parents—made the day even more special.
As the parade came to an end, I had one T-shirt remaining. I offered it to an older woman sitting with her husband in lawn chairs. With a huge smile she replied, “My favourite colour!” It was a simple moment that perfectly captured the spirit of the day.
We couldn’t have asked for a better welcome from our community.
A New Partnership with United Way
One of the biggest announcements this summer is a new partnership between Sammy’s Backpacks and United Way’s Backpack for Success program.
While both organizations remain completely independent, we’re working together to better serve children throughout Algoma.
Together we will:
- Help ensure every child who needs school supplies receives them.
- Prevent duplicate backpack deliveries.
- Reach more schools and students.
- Share volunteers and resources during backpack packing and distribution.
This partnership allows both organizations to make an even greater impact while continuing their own unique missions.
Charity Golf Tournament
We are honoured to have been selected as the Charity of Choice for the Crimson Ridge Golf Club tournament on August 7.
Volunteers from Sammy’s Backpacks will be on site sharing information about our organization while offering prizes in exchange for donations that directly support this year’s backpack program.
We’re incredibly grateful to everyone involved for choosing to support our mission.
Backpack Packing Season Begins
August marks the beginning of backpack packing season.
Working alongside our volunteers and community partners—including United Way—we’re preparing backpacks for children throughout our region so they can begin the school year with confidence.
Every backpack represents the generosity of our community and the belief that every child deserves a positive start to the school year.
Delivering Hope to SickKids Hospital
On July 28, members of Sammy’s Backpacks travelled to Toronto to personally deliver 60 fully stocked backpacks to SickKids Hospital.
This project holds a special place in our hearts. Every backpack is packed with love in memory of Sammy Graham Jr., with the hope of bringing comfort and encouragement to children and families facing difficult circumstances.
Supporting Youth Through Sport
Sammy’s Backpacks is proud to sponsor the U11 Black Sox baseball team this season.
Congratulations to the team on winning the Stratford Jack Grasby Memorial Tournament! We wish the players, coaches, and families continued success throughout the remainder of the season.
Justice for Sammy Jr. Update
On July 15, the court scheduled the sentencing hearing for September 23, 2026.
The court also addressed the separate alleged breach charges. Rather than hearing those matters during sentencing, the judge scheduled a separate court appearance for September 10, 2026. Those allegations remain before the court.
Our family continues to await the sentencing hearing while remaining committed to honouring Sammy’s memory and advocating for victims and their families.
Looking Ahead
Although this has already been an incredible summer, there is still much more to come.
Once this year’s backpack distributions have been completed, we’ll publish our complete 2026 Year in Review featuring:
- Backpack packing events
- School distributions
- Volunteer recognition
- Community partnerships
- Sponsor appreciation
- SickKids Hospital
- The Sammy’s Backpacks Bus
- New milestones and accomplishments
Thank you to every volunteer, sponsor, donor, community partner, and supporter who continues to stand beside our family.
Together, we are carrying Sammy’s legacy forward by helping children and families—one backpack at a time.