Analog Devices recently joined forces with St Vincent’s de Paul (SVP) to deliver "Operation Backpack", a community outreach initiative aimed at providing crucial support to families facing financial challenges as they prepare their children for the new school year.
As part of Operation Backpack, 115 primary schoolchildren from Limerick, Cork, and Dublin received brand-new backpacks filled with essential school supplies, including pencil cases, glue, coloured pencils, and exercise books. This initiative represents Analog Devices' commitment to supporting families in the community and ensuring that children have the necessary tools to thrive at school.
The Community Activities Board (CAB), an employee resource group within Analog Devices, spearheaded the back-to-school drive by generously donating the backpacks. Employees across Analog Devices then supported the initiative by donating a variety of back-to-school supplies based on a list provided by SVP. The employees who volunteered on behalf of the CAB then assembled the supplies and packed each backpack.
Volunteers across Analog Devices three sites in Ireland participated, contributing to a wider impact. In Limerick, 75 primary schoolchildren received the new backpacks, and in Dublin and Cork, backpacks were distributed to 40 schoolchildren. Hundreds of miscellaneous school supplies were also provided to SVP for distribution throughout the year.
Speaking about the collaboration, Louise McGrath at Analog Devices, said,
"We are thrilled to have partnered with St Vincent’s de Paul for Operation Backpack. We recognize the financial strain that many families experience during the back-to-school season, and through this initiative, we hope to alleviate some of that burden. By equipping these children with the basics they need to excel in school, we aim to make the transition of back-to-school easier for everyone."
This is the second year that Analog Devices has partnered with St Vincent de Paul for Operation Backpack.
Caroline Manifold, St Vincent’s de Paul, said,
“We are very grateful to the team at Analog Devices for this invaluable support. Back-to-school costs are pushing many already-struggling families into spiralling debt. These backpacks help lift a heavy load off the shoulders of parents and make a tangible difference.”