As summer comes to an end, parents and children are starting to think about going back to school. Remember the excitement of buying new clothes, backpacks, and school supplies? 

For many underserved families in Playa del Carmen, gathering basic school necessities for their children is extremely difficult. At KKIS, we strive to help these students start the school year off right with the supplies they need to succeed.

This year, we handed out over 3000 backpacks filled with school supplies or “tools for success” to deserving students in Playa del Carmen.

Having the proper school supplies and a backpack to carry them in can significantly benefit a student’s emotional well-being and self-esteem. When children attend school without the essential tools for learning, it can negatively impact their confidence. They may feel like they stand out or don’t fit in, affecting their focus and participation. 

A new backpack and school supplies help students feel prepared and part of the group.

Teachers tell us that many students do not show up to class prepared with the proper supplies like a pencil or paper simply because that is a cost many families cannot afford. 

Additionally, having a fully equipped backpack can help a student’s organization. Supplies like notebooks, folders, pencils, and pens allow students to stay on top of their work and easily access what they need. 

An organized student can work more efficiently. Frustration is reduced, and self-motivation increases when a child can effectively manage their school responsibilities. Equipping students with organizational supplies promotes success in the classroom and beyond.

The Struggle is Real for Many Families

Mexico has one of the highest poverty rates in all of Latin America. Right here in our beloved Riviera Maya, many families struggle to make ends meet. Parents often work multiple jobs just to provide food and shelter. Extra expenses like school supplies put additional strain on the family budget. 

When children show up to school empty-handed, it can negatively impact their self-esteem and ability to focus. Some key supplies that make a difference include:

• Backpacks – to carry books, supplies, and homework
• Notebooks, paper, and pencils – for taking notes and completing assignments
• Rulers, compasses, and protractors – for math and science classes
• Glue, scissors, and markers – for arts and crafts projects
• Calculators – for math and science

Without these basics, children start the year at a disadvantage.

The Kindness of Strangers

For the past 13 years, KKIS has helped equip students with the tools they need to start school ready to learn. We rely on the kindness of donors and volunteers who give their time and resources. 

A whole year of school supplies in a backpack only costs $25 USD per student.
Not much more than a few coffees in the US.

Our supplies distribution events have helped thousands of students over the years. Seeing the smiling faces as children pick out their own backpacks and supplies is priceless. Parents are grateful to KKIS and our partners for lifting this financial burden.

Businesses Can Make an Impact  

KKIS is always seeking more corporate sponsors for our back-to-school initiatives. We work with numerous companies to fulfill their corporate social responsibility initiatives.  Local businesses have the opportunity to make a real difference right here in our community. 

We welcome any level of support, including:

• Financial donations to purchase bulk supplies
• Donating inventory such as backpacks, notebooks, binders, etc.
• Volunteering at supply distribution events
• Promoting supply drives to customers and employees
• Providing storage space for collected supplies

Partnering with businesses expands KKIS’s reach and impact. Companies gain goodwill by demonstrating social responsibility. Their employees can also get involved through volunteerism. It’s a win-win for the business and our community.

Join Us in Providing for Students in Need

As we approach the new school year, we hope you will consider supporting KKIS and the students we serve. A small act of kindness, like donating a backpack or school supplies, can make a difference in a child’s life. With your help, we can ensure more students start the year off right.

Here are some ways you can get involved:

• Make a financial donation to KKIS to support our back-to-school programs. Any amount helps us purchase supplies in bulk.
• Hold a school supply drive at your business, place of worship, or community organization. We’ll help promote it and collect the donated supplies.
• Volunteer to assist at our supply distribution events throughout the year. It’s a rewarding experience!
• Spread the word about our mission and needs in your personal network and on social media. 

When the community comes together, we can accomplish great things. Thank you for considering how you can help provide for students in need.

Let’s Set Children Up for Success!

The beginning of a new school year is full of potential. Together, we can make sure all students in our community are equipped and empowered. With the tools they need, children can thrive in the classroom. 

Please visit www.kkisproject.org to learn more about supporting our back-to-school initiatives. We also welcome inquiries at info@kkisproject.org. On behalf of KKIS and the many students you’ll impact, thank you for your interest and support!