This past year has been filled with challenges. Our hearts ache for lives lost too soon—like Charlie Kirk and Iryna Zarutska—and for the shadows cast by school shootings and tragedies that remind us how fragile life can be. Yet, in the midst of this pain, we choose hope and strength, love and kindness. Sammy’s Backpacks has become our way of wrapping kids and families in the love we carry for them, and we are humbled to share what we’ve accomplished together.
With your help, more than 200 backpacks—each filled with school supplies, snacks, footballs, lunch boxes, socks, and more—made their way into the hands of children. Every school we visited received 19 backpacks, representing each year our son Sammy was here with us in this world. We also provided 19 backpacks to SOYA and another 19 to families and individuals in need.
Together, this love reached across schools including Pinewood, Parkland, HM Robbins, White Pines, Garden River, Eastview, Grandview, Queen Elizabeth, St. Mary’s French Immersion, and beyond.
Every backpack carries more than pencils and paper—it carries a message: you are not alone. Whether Canadian or American, young or old, we are all brothers and sisters. Every child should know this truth: you are a creation beyond words, a life so special that the world shines brighter because you are here. And it’s okay to pause, to pray, and to talk to our Creator—because we were never meant to carry life’s struggles alone.
We owe deep gratitude to Avery’s, Pioneer, Oaklin Trucking, Walmart (with a special thank you to Kathy Burch), Gary Walsh, Pino’s, Tammy & Brian Wright, Frank Agawa, Tracey Brush & coworkers, Beck’s Bar, and so many others whose generosity made this possible. A heartfelt thank you to our family and friends—this would never have been possible without you standing with us from the very beginning. And a very special thank you to Susan Dennie, who not only organized one successful car wash, but two, helping turn an idea into a movement of love.
These backpacks are more than gifts—they are reminders of strength and love, and small promises that brighter days are possible when we walk together. To every child and family touched by this city initiative, thank you for letting us share in your story and for helping make our 4th year of Sammy’s Backpacks so special. And to those still carrying unseen wounds and grief, we want you to know: we walk with you, we see you, and we are here for you.
Together, one act of love at a time, we can keep healing—and our strength will grow.
Psalm 34:18 (NIV)
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
With endless gratitude and love, God bless, Sam & Brigette Graham Sammy’s Backpacks
