Staff Reports | Community Updates
Molina Healthcare of Arizona distributed more than 4,000 free backpacks filled with school supplies to students and families in Glendale, Tempe, Mesa and Phoenix ahead of the 2026-27 school year.
The backpack giveaways were part of a series of community events designed to help students prepare for the new school year while connecting families with health and community resources, according to a press release.
At each event, Molina representatives and community partners provided information about health benefits and local services. A July 2026 Teacher Insight Survey by the Kids In Need Foundation found that more than half of students begin the school year without all of the supplies they need, with supply shortages affecting academic performance, confidence, engagement and sense of belonging in the classroom.
“Getting ready for a new school year can be exciting, but it can also be stressful for families,” Molina Healthcare of Arizona Plan President Minnie Andrade said. “At Molina, we’re proud to stand alongside schools, families, and community partners to help ensure children have what they need to succeed.”
In Glendale, Molina partnered with Glendale Strong Family Network, First Things First and Glendale Elementary School District to provide the first 1,000 school-age children with backpacks, breakfast, haircuts and dental screenings. The first 400 families also received food bags.
In Tempe, Molina distributed more than 500 backpacks at Fuller Elementary School. In Mesa, the company partnered with Mesa Prevention Alliance to provide 1,500 children with backpacks at Mesa High School. In Phoenix, Molina and Isaac School District hosted a back-to-school health fair, providing the first 1,000 families with backpacks as well as immunizations, sports physicals, haircuts and health screenings.
“This event means everything to our families, and the impact it will have on our students is something we cannot put a price on,” Tempe Elementary School District Director of Wraparound Services Michele Grimaldi said. “When a child walks into class on the first day with everything they need, that simple act of preparedness builds confidence and sets the tone for a great year.”
