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Ochsner Children’s, Youth Empowerment Project host ‘Back to School Giveaway’ on July 18
Event provides an easy, drive-through format for families to pick up backpacks and supplies at no cost
NEW ORLEANS – Ochsner Children’s and Youth Empowerment Project (YEP) will host its annual Back to School Giveaway from 9-11 a.m. on Saturday, July 18 at the New Orleans East Youth Opportunity Center, 12000 Hayne Blvd. To make it easier for families to participate, this year's event has been updated to a convenient drive-through format, offering backpacks and essential school supplies at no cost (until supplies last).
“At Ochsner, we know that a child's educational success and their overall health are deeply connected,” said Carlos Calix, assistant vice president for community affairs and school partnerships, Ochsner Health. “By shifting to a drive-through format this year, we want to alleviate some of the seasonal stress for parents and ensure families can easily and safely access the supplies their children need to support their mental and physical well-being as they head back to the classroom.”
In addition to helping families prepare students to return to the school, this streamlined event meets a major community need by removing financial and logistical barriers for parents.
“The Youth Empowerment Project is thrilled to continue our partnership with Ochsner Children’s,” said Jerome Jupiter, YEP CEO. “We deeply value Ochsner’s commitment to identifying health needs and engaging the community to promote better health and healthier communities. This event is crucial, coming just before the new school year, which is a critical time of preparation for families and students.”
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About YEP
The Youth Empowerment Project (YEP) is one of the most comprehensive nonprofit organizations in Greater New Orleans, dedicated to empowering young people through community-based education, mentoring, employment readiness, and enrichment programs. Operating from five sites across Central City, Mid-City, Algiers, New Orleans East, and St. Charles Parish, YEP annually reaches nearly 1,000 individuals across 13 parishes. All four of YEP's impactful programs are offered free of charge, helping participants develop essential skills and strengthen their ties to family and community. For more information, visit youthempowermentproject.org or follow on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube.
About Ochsner Health
Ochsner Health is the leading nonprofit healthcare provider in Louisiana, Mississippi and across the Gulf South, delivering expert care at its 47 hospitals and more than 370 health and urgent care centers. Ochsner is nationally recognized for inspiring healthier lives and stronger communities through expertise, quality and digital connectivity. In 2025, more than 40,000 dedicated team members and 5,000 employed and affiliated physicians at Ochsner cared for more than 1.6 million people from every state in the nation and 65 countries. To learn more about how Ochsner empowers people to get well and stay well, visit www.ochsner.org.