Smiles, Supplies, and Support: The Campbell House Back-to-School Story

EventsCommunity ImpactYouth & EducationBack-to-SchoolPartnerships & Sponsors
Written By Autumn Price

This August, The Campbell House hosted our annual Back-to-School Book Bag Giveaway—and it was nothing short of extraordinary.

Thanks to the generosity of our volunteers, vendors, and partners, we were able to serve over 200 children with school supplies and treat them to a joyful day filled with face painting, hand painting, concession treats, and free haircuts and braiding.

This year, we were proud to introduce something new—five specialty book bags, each tailored to a technical career path. At The Campbell House, we know that college is not the only route to success, and we want to uplift youth who choose trade and technical schooling.

✨ The Specialty Bags:

  • Digital Creator Bag – Sponsored by Aliah

  • HVAC Bag – Sponsored by Brittany

  • Cosmetology Bag – Sponsored by Kangela

  • Culinary Bag – Sponsored by Tsu Surf Holdings

  • Medical Bag – Sponsored by The Campbell House

These bags are filled with resources designed to give students a head start in their chosen technical fields. While most high schoolers were unable to attend the giveaway event, the bags will be on display at West Side High School. Students can apply to win them by submitting a short essay about their interest in these career paths.

We extend heartfelt gratitude to:

  • Rev. Thurselle Williams of New Hope Baptist Church and her morning crew

  • Philip B. Alagia, Essex County Chief of Staff

  • Ms. Willette Thomas of Delaware

  • 360 Vinyl (always showing up without hesitation)

  • Dominique (buttons)

  • Autumn (banner design)

  • Principal Jessenia Roman of East Harlem Scholars Academy

  • Belleville ShopRite

  • Tsu Surf Holdings (generous donations)

  • Aminah of Booked and Busy Tutoring (another successful year of partnership)

And to every barber, braider, volunteer, and vendor who gave their time and skills—thank you. You didn’t just provide supplies; you gave confidence, hope, and joy to the children we serve.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for believing in our vision and standing with us in community.

🖤 With gratitude,
Kimbelyn Campbell-Smith
Founder & CEO, The Campbell House

Autumn Price
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