Toronto, ON – July 10, 2026 – Afro Canadian Development Inc. is proud to announce its 2026 Back-to-School Community Support Event, taking place on Saturday, August 22, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Dear Mama Banquet Hall, Unit 19, 1270 Finch Avenue West, North York, Ontario.
As families continue to face rising living costs, many struggle to afford the essential school supplies children need for a successful academic year. Through this annual initiative, Afro Canadian Development Inc. remains committed to reducing educational barriers by providing free backpacks filled with grade-appropriate school supplies to children and youth from underserved and low-income families throughout the Greater Toronto Area.
This year’s event aims to support more than 450+ children, ensuring they begin the new school year with the tools, confidence, and encouragement needed to succeed both inside and outside the classroom.
In addition to school supply distribution, families will enjoy a welcoming community celebration featuring:
- Free school backpacks and supplies
- Family photobooth
- Children’s games and activities
- Mascot appearances
- Music and entertainment
- Snacks and refreshments
- Community information booths
“Our Back-to-School initiative is about much more than distributing school supplies,” said Emmanuel Animodi, Executive Director of Afro Canadian Development Inc. “It is about creating opportunities, restoring confidence, and ensuring every child begins the school year feeling prepared and valued. Every backpack represents hope, every notebook represents possibility, and every child deserves an equal opportunity to succeed. We are incredibly grateful to our partners, volunteers, donors, and community members whose generosity continues to make this initiative possible.”
Since launching the program, Afro Canadian Development Inc. has supported hundreds of children and families through its annual Back-to-School initiatives. Each year, the program grows, reflecting the increasing need in our communities and our commitment to promoting educational equity, youth empowerment, and community development.
We’re grateful to our corporate partners, foundations, volunteers, and donors for making the 2026 Back-to-School Community Support Event possible.
Special Thanks to Our Partners
Afro Canadian Development Inc. gratefully acknowledges the generous support of:
- TD Bank
- SanMar Canada
- Farm Boy
- Kinaxis
Their continued investment in children and families is helping remove barriers to education while creating brighter opportunities for future generations. Afro Canadian Development Inc. invites community members, volunteers, sponsors, donors, and members of the media to join this important initiative as we work together to ensure every child begins the school year with confidence, dignity, and the resources they need to thrive.
Event Details
Date: Saturday, August 22, 2026
Time: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Venue: Dear Mama Banquet Hall, Unit 19, 1270 Finch Avenue West, North York, Ontario M3J 3J7
Registration: Advance registration is required. School supplies are limited and will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis to eligible registered families.
About Afro Canadian Development Inc.
Afro Canadian Development Inc. is a registered Canadian charitable organization committed to empowering underserved communities through education, youth development, economic empowerment, digital inclusion, health promotion, and community engagement. By working alongside community partners, corporate sponsors, volunteers, and donors, the organization delivers impactful programs that create opportunities, strengthen communities, and inspire lasting positive change.
Media Contact
Afro Canadian Development Inc.
📧 info@afrocanadiandevelopment.org
📞 +1 (416) 638-8525
🌐 www.afrocanadiandevelopment.org