Young Bermudians Give Back for a Second Year in a Row with Expanded Backpack Drive
Bermuda Community Outreach Foundation is inviting parents and students to join them at Death Valley Playground in Southampton for their second annual Back-to-School Giveaway on August 24, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM.
This year’s event will also feature a special treat from Jazzy Treats, who will be donating 100 mini kiddie snow cones to students attending the giveaway. Alfred Butterfield from Jazzy Treats shared: “We’re joining BCOF to give something back to the community. We’re also passionate about supporting Bermuda and our youth, and if we can make an impact-big or small-we’re all for it. That’s why we’ve partnered with this team of young people.”
Parents or guardians interested in reserving a backpack can sign up at: https://form.jotform.com/242056034822045. A limited number of gifts will also be donated to parents and guardians upon collection.
After a successful launch in 2024, Malay Robinson, Christopher Jackson, and Andreaz Glasgow are back for a second consecutive year with their Annual Back-to-School Giveaway, presented through their grassroots initiative, the Bermuda Community Outreach Foundation (BCOF).
The trio of young Bermudians, all from Sandy’s Parish, say the overwhelming support and response to last year’s event encouraged them to dream even bigger for 2025. “Last year’s drive was an outstanding success,” said the group in a joint statement. “We wanted to grow this initiative and reach even more students and families who deserve to feel prepared and supported heading into the school year.”
In 2024, the drive provided 168 backpacks. This year, they’ve increased the number to 240 fully stocked backpacks – thanks in large part to new community partnerships.
This year, BCOF is proud to partner with The Mirrors Programme spearheaded by Kimberley Jackson, Programme Manager., Bermuda General Agency (BGA), and Dunkley’s to expand its reach and impact. A spokesperson for the group shared: “We want to give a special shoutout to Bermuda General Agency and Dunkley’s for donating enough school snacks and healthy food supplies for every student. We’re also grateful to The Mirrors Programme for providing in-kind support and volunteers to help bring this event to life.”
The Mirrors Programme added:
“We’re excited to partner with Bermuda Community Outreach Foundation to provide essential back-to-school supplies to families across the island. On August 24, 2025, 20 Emerging Leaders from Cohort 20 will join BCOF to distribute backpacks and healthy snacks. We believe students should be mentally, emotionally, and physically prepared for the start of school, and we’re honored to support families in this way.”
Malay Robinson (22), currently pursuing a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) in English/Language Arts Teacher Education at Kean University in New Jersey, shared her motivation:
“As someone training to become a teacher, I see firsthand how small things can have a major impact on a student’s day. Having grown up in a teacher’s home, my mom – the late Lori Robinson – showed me the importance of being both a compassionate educator and a supportive parent. No student should worry about whether they’ll have a pencil or a snack for the day. That’s why I continue to invest my time and resources into this initiative – because I know how deeply it matters to our youth.”
Robinson is also an active member of the Tau Sigma National Honors Society, Tomorrow’s Teachers, and Cougar Volunteers.
Christopher Jackson (22), Chair of Bermuda’s Youth Mental Health Advisory Board and a psychology graduate from Eastern Michigan University, added:
“As a young person growing up in Bermuda, I remember the excitement of starting school with fresh supplies – but I also remember the tough years when that feeling wasn’t guaranteed. Now, having worked in youth care and behavioral health, I know school readiness is tied to a student’s confidence, mental health, and sense of belonging. This initiative helps ensure every child starts the year with dignity and support. I’m proud to be part of a Bermuda that looks out for each other.”
Jackson will soon return to Michigan to pursue a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology.
Andreaz Glasgow (21), a recent graduate of Long Island University, holds two Bachelor of Arts degrees – one in Political Science and one in International Relations and Diplomacy. He will have his Master of Business Administration conferred this December. He shared:
“Growing up in a single-parent household, I saw firsthand how draining back-to-school season could be. Parents often have to make impossible choices – between a backpack or groceries, socks or school supplies. Our initiative can’t fix everything, but we hope it eases some of the burden and brings a bit of relief. Every student deserves to start school with what they need.”
Glasgow plans to pursue a PhD after completing his MBA, with the long-term goal of returning to Bermuda to continue giving back.
Reserve a Backpack
Parents or guardians interested in reserving a backpack can sign up at: https://form.jotform.com/242056034822045. A limited number of gifts will also be donated to parents and guardians upon collection.
About Bermuda Community Outreach Foundation:
Bermuda Community Outreach Foundation is dedicated to improving the lives of Bermuda’s residents through initiatives focused on education, community support, and social well-being. Our mission is to foster a strong, united community where everyone has the resources and opportunities they need to succeed.
