The 2025 pilot supported students across grades K–12 to validate our model.

Insights from that pilot confirmed the greatest unmet need is among students

in grades 5–12, which is now our primary focus moving forward.

Impact to Date

  • 106 backpacks distributed (2025)

    In 2025, GIFTS completed its pilot backpack distribution, delivering 106 fully stocked backpacks to students in need. This initial effort validated our logistics, community partnerships, and on-the-ground execution model.

  • 40 winter coats delivered (2025)

    Alongside the backpack pilot, GIFTS distributed 40 winter coats to students during the 2025 season. This effort ensured students were properly equipped for colder months while testing seasonal distribution workflows.

  • 1 city served: Stamford (2025)

    The 2025 pilot program was executed in a single city, allowing GIFTS to focus on precision, coordination, and measurable outcomes before expanding into additional cities.

  • 1 pilot program completed (2025)

    The 2025 initiative served as a full pilot program, testing sourcing, volunteer coordination, distribution logistics, and reporting. Insights from this pilot directly inform the 2026 expansion roadmap.

  • Grades K–12 supported (2025)

    The pilot program focused on students in grades K through 12 in 2025, addressing a critical gap where older students are often underserved in back-to-school and seasonal support efforts.

  • 20 volunteers engaged (2025)

    Twenty volunteers supported the pilot program across preparation, distribution, and logistics. Volunteer participation confirmed the scalability of the engagement model for future cities.

  • 5 trusted sponsors confirmed (2025)

    Five sponsors supported the pilot initiative, providing early validation of GIFTS’ sponsorship framework and laying the foundation for future corporate and foundation partnerships.

Together, these early outcomes confirm that GIFTS has a proven model, trusted partners, and the operational discipline to scale responsibly. The 2025 pilot established a clear foundation for measured growth, setting the stage for expanded impact outlined in the 2026 roadmap.

2026 Roadmap

  • January 2026

    GIFTS Foundation 501(c)(3) finalized

    • Website and social media launched

    • Pilot results documented and organized

    • Impact metrics finalized for public use

  • February 2026

    • Grant applications submitted (early-cycle focus)

    • Local political leaders approached for alignment

    • Community partners confirmed to identify students

    • Sourcing identified for backpacks, school supplies, coats, hats, and gloves

  • March 2026

    • Sponsor outreach campaign launched

    • Corporate and foundation meetings scheduled

    • Fundraiser planning finalized (venues, presenters, format)

    • Event documentation plan confirmed (photography + video intent)

  • May 2026

    • Sponsor commitments finalized

    • Vendor pricing locked for supplies and materials

    • Distribution logistics mapped by city

  • June 2026

    • Volunteer recruitment and confirmation

    • Storage and assembly locations secured

    • Final student counts confirmed per city

  • July 2026

    • Student lists finalized through partner schools

    • Volunteer leadership assigned by city

    • Distribution calendar locked and communicated

  • August 2026

    • All backpacks, supplies, coats, hats, and gloves ordered

  • September 2026

    • Inventory received and verified

    • Volunteer schedules finalized

  • October 2026

    • Backpack filling every weekend

    • Content captured for reporting and sponsors

  • November 2026

    • Backpack filling continues

    • Distribution to 1 city

  • December 2026

    • Distributions to additional cities

    • Post-distribution reporting and thank-you outreach

GIFTS Foundation, Connecticut, USA.

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