Homeless Backpack Challenge

30 Minutes spoke with Diana Figueroa and Ron Austin from The Carlos G. Figueroa Foundation whose mission is promoting the understanding of poverty and homelessness through media. Ron is a formerly homeless person and Diana’s father was homeless when he was tragically beaten and left to die behind an auto parts store.

This year, The Carlos G. Figueroa Foundation is working on the 2nd Annual Homeless Backpack Challenge. Diana was inspired by the ALS viral Ice Bucket Challenge fundraiser. Last year the group handed out 400 backpacks and they hope to exceed last year’s total.

Participants are encouraged to challenge two people to purchase a backpack and put in it these specific items: socks, winter cap, gloves, lotion or sunblock, $5 gift card from fast food or a store of your choice, lip balm, snacks, water bottle. Any items that are not on the list will be accepted but will be handed out separately from the backpacks.

Backpacks must be collected by November 28th and will be distributed at an event on December 5th from noon to 3pm at Armory Park Center.

Be sure to check the 2015 Homeless Backpack Challenge for updated information on drop off locations and other event details.

Realty Executives, Tucson Elite
6380 E Grant Road Suite # 130
Tucson, Az 85715

Realty Executives, Tucson Elite
6760 N Oracle Road, Suite 130
Tucson, Az 85704

Green Valley Robin’s Nest Styling Salon
18745 S I-10, Frontage Road # 111

Studio Bellagio
105 E Speedway Blvd

Saenz and Associates
425 W Ajo Way
Tucson, Az 85713

Bravo Insurance Solutions
8710 N Thornydale Road
Suite # 150 85742

Mean Sisterz Salon
215 N Hoff Ave

Cactus Drug (formerly The Medicine Shoppe)
305 S Euclid #111
520-471-1125
Contact-Deborah

Borderlands Brewery (downtown)
119 E Toole Ave,
Tucson, AZ 85701
Box will be behind counter

Masterpieces Puzzle Company
12475 N. Ranch Vistoso Blvd.
Oro Valley, AZ
Contact-Patricia

Here is a link to an interactive map of all drop off points:

http://j.mp/1RsskUC