Special project
Ready to Thrive
Helping Winnipeg children start the school year with everything they need — a full backpack, a healthy body, and a community behind them.
100+
Backpacks & Wellness Kits distributed
Free
To all families
Annual
Back-to-school event
2026
Program launched
About the Program
Ready to Thrive is a back-to-school initiative by Pegcity Steppers that ensures children in Winnipeg's underserved communities start the school year fully equipped and ready to succeed. We provide filled backpacks with essential school supplies to children and families who need them most.
But Ready to Thrive is more than a backpack giveaway. It's a community wellness event that brings together fitness activities, health resources, and family programming — reinforcing our belief that a healthy, active child is a thriving child.
This initiative is made possible through the generosity of our sponsors, community partners, and volunteers who share our commitment to equity and youth empowerment in Winnipeg.
Download our sponsor deck
What Every Child Receives
Filled Backpack
A quality backpack stocked with grade-appropriate school supplies including notebooks, pencils, rulers, and more.
Wellness Resources
Health and wellness information for families, including nutrition tips and physical activity guides.
Community Connection
Access to community resources, support networks, and Pegcity Steppers programming throughout the year.
Confidence Boost
The knowledge that their community believes in them and is invested in their success from day one.
Request a Backpack
Is your child in need of school supplies? Fill out the form below to request a backpack for the upcoming school year. All requests are confidential.
Support Ready to Thrive
Every dollar and every partnership helps us put a backpack in the hands of a child who needs it. Here's how you can make a difference.
Make a Donation
Your financial contribution directly funds backpacks and school supplies for children in need. Every amount makes a difference.
Donate nowBecome a Partner
Partner with us to amplify your community impact. Download our sponsor deck to learn about partnership opportunities and benefits.
Download sponsor deckVolunteer
Join our team of volunteers on event day to help distribute backpacks, run activities, and support families in the community.
Sign up to volunteerOur Project Partners
Ready to Thrive is made possible through the support of these incredible organizations.
Program Gallery
Photos from our community events — more coming soon as we gear up for the 2026 back-to-school season!
Event photos will be posted here after our 2026 Ready to Thrive event. Check back soon!