'Backpack Fairy' Project helps Hibiscus Village youth go back to school prepared

INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — A heartwarming tradition that began 18 years ago in Vero Beach continues to make a significant impact on the lives of local youth today.

The "Backpack Fairy" Project, a unique initiative created by local students, has become an enduring symbol of community spirit and compassion.

The project involves filling backpacks with essential school supplies for the youth at the Hibiscus Children’s Village, ensuring they start the school year prepared and confident. This special project is driven by teens who want to help other teens succeed.

The “Backpack Fairy” Project began in 2006 when students from St. Edwards School in Vero Beach collected and filled the first backpacks with supplies for Hibiscus youth. This tradition has continued each summer with new students spearheading these efforts.  As one group graduates, younger students assume the role and keep the mission moving forward.

High school students Isabela (Isa) Argote and Carrie Jane (CJ) Fykes are this year’s "Backpack Fairies." They collected money to shop and purchase 40 lunch bags and 40 backpacks filled with middle and high school supplies. They delivered them all to the Hibiscus Village.

Some of the Hibiscus youth have never owned a new backpack or entered the school year prepared. The youth who call the Village home have been placed in Hibiscus’ care after being removed by the state due to abuse, neglect or abandonment.

While living at the Village, youth receive career preparation and training services along with a focus on educational services and receiving their high school diploma or GED. In addition, the teens receive professional mental health counseling and trauma-informed care.

Their support and caring have made a difference and helped hundreds of teens return to school ready for a great year.

For more information about Hibiscus and how you can get involved to help youth, visit www.HibiscusChildrensCenter.org or call 772-299-6011.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: 'Backpack Fairy' Project helps Hibiscus Village youth go back to school prepared