Councilwoman Betty Guardado kicked off the fifth annual Backpack Giveaway event on August 2, 2025, in Phoenix, expressing her excitement for the upcoming school year and the opportunity to support local students. This year, over a thousand backpacks filled with essential school supplies, including notebooks, pens, and pencils, were distributed to children in the community.

Guardado extended her gratitude to the sponsors who made the event possible, highlighting the contributions of Local 493, the firefighters foundation, and IBM as the major sponsor. She also acknowledged the efforts of local hairstylists who provided free haircuts to children, enhancing the back-to-school experience.

The event, held in collaboration with the Cartwright and Alhambra school districts, aims to ensure that students are well-prepared for the school year ahead. Councilwoman Guardado emphasized the importance of community support in making the event a success, encouraging families to come out and take advantage of the resources available until 9 PM.

As the school year approaches, this initiative not only provides necessary supplies but also fosters a sense of community and support for families in District 5. The Backpack Giveaway reflects ongoing efforts to address the needs of local students and ensure they have the tools they need to succeed in their education.