A Backpack of Hope and Comfort for Kids in Crisis
Empowering kids to play, heal and thrive, one backpack at a time.
Our Mission
At Back to Play, our mission is to support and uplift children facing any adversity — illness, instability in their home life, natural disasters, and beyond. We believe every child deserves the chance to play, heal, and thrive, regardless of their circumstances.
Through resources, programs, and a network of support, we aim to empower children to move beyond their challenges with resilience, hope, and joy.
I'm Faith
Originally from Illinois, I’ve called the Charlotte-Lake Norman area home for over 14 years, where I live with my husband and two boys. As an Occupational Therapist and Certified ISR Instructor, I’ve always been passionate about helping children thrive. But the origins of Back to Play are deeply personal.
When Hurricane Helene devastated Western North Carolina, I was shaken by the news. My family experienced some inconveniences, but it was nothing compared to the unimaginable loss faced by so many families in our state. I couldn’t stop thinking about the children who had lost everything—their homes, their toys, their sense of safety. That’s when the idea struck: backpacks filled with essentials and comforts to bring a little light back into their lives.
With overwhelming support from friends, family, and even strangers, Back to Play was born. In just five days, we became an official 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Today, what started as a local effort is expanding nationwide, helping children impacted by fires in California and other natural disasters across the country.
read More about how we got started
Thanks to the generosity of donors and partners like Simple Modern, Enro, Yankee Toy Box, and Turtle Fur, we’re able to make this mission a reality. Each donation makes an immediate impact, ensuring we can continue spreading love and hope, one backpack at a time.
How we help kids in need
Every backpack we deliver is filled with love and carefully selected items
A stuffed animals, blankets, and soothing items to make them feel safe
With Comfort
Socks, underwear, hydgene products and other small clothing items
Essentials
Back to play Back to play Back to play
Join our community of helpers by organizing backpack drives or assisting with distribution
Volunteer
Make a financial contribution to support our efforts
paypal donation
Choose toys and essentials directly from the list
Amazon Gift List
Your support means everything to the children impacted by Hurricane Helene. With your help, we can give them a sense of normalcy and comfort during this difficult time. Every donation makes a difference, no matter how small.
Ways to Help
Together we can make their world feel a little brighter
Countless volunteer hours
1500+ Backpacks Delivered
Thank You for Helping Us Bring Back a Little Joy
A heartfelt THANK YOU to our donors for making the backpacks happen
Collaboration that will help us grow
- Storage Solutions Denver
