New backpacks have been collected for over 2,700 children to start the school year with

OP Financial Group’s and Hope ry’s annual A backpack for every back campaign took place once again in July. The campaign supports children from low-income families in their first school year by collecting backpacks and other school supplies.

Many families’ finances are under increasing strain due to sharply rising living costs. It is increasingly important to support the equal opportunities of children and young people in these challenging times. A new backpack is a relatively small thing but with great significance: It creates a sense of equality and belonging. 

The goal of OP Financial Group’s and Hope ry’s joint A backpack for every back campaign is to offer a backpack for as many children as possible starting from their first day at school. This year, backpacks and school supplies were collected in the branches of 29 OP cooperative banks. OP cooperative bank customers and OP Financial Group employees collected over 2,700 backpacks. In addition to backpacks, a large amount of other school supplies was collected.

“The annual backpack collection is a concrete way for OP Financial Group to perform good deeds locally together with our customers. At the same time, we want to highlight challenges faced by many families with children due to the prevailing economic situation. We wish to express a warm thanks to everyone who participated. Your help is truly significant,” emphasises Satu Kuoppamäki, Corporate Responsibility Lead of OP Retail Banking.

The first backpacks were donated in 2017, and the campaign quickly grew to become nationwide. Every year, we have received and handed out thousands of donated backpacks. 
Hope ry’s goal of equal and good everyday life for all children is very important. OP Financial Group also wishes to promote equal opportunities across Finland and improve children’s and young people’s confidence in the future.