In August, as summer was winding down, Raphael House held its much anticipated annual Back-to-School event. With the help of our community partners, The Junior League of San Francisco, National Charity League, Pier 39, and various other donors, more than 200 children from our Residential Shelter and Bridge programs received backpacks and kits filled with essential school supplies needed for a successful academic year. For many families working diligently to achieve financial independence and stability, the extra expense of school supplies can be difficult to overcome. This event ensures that these children will be able to focus on learning without their parents having to worry if they will have access to the necessary resources for them to do so. Integral to helping families break the generational cycle of poverty is ensuring that children achieve academic success, and getting the necessary school supplies is a critical first step. Thank you to everyone who helped to make this possible for our families this year!