One of the largest back to school initiatives in the nation empowers South Florida students

Over $350,000 in supplies distributed by the Kiwanis of Little Havana Foundation and Miami Marlins Foundation at the yearly back to school event

Every August, as the energy of a new school year begins to buzz across Miami-Dade, a powerful tradition takes shape in Little Havana. The Kiwanis of Little Havana Foundation, in partnership with the Miami Marlins Foundation, once again stepped up to make a difference in the lives of thousands of children. From August 18–25, 2025, more than $350,000 worth of essential school supplies were placed directly into the hands of over 10,000 underserved students at more than a dozen public elementary schools across South Florida.

This isn’t just another back to school supply drive—it’s one of the largest back to school initiatives in the nation, and for the past 33 years, it has given children the tools and confidence they need to start the academic year strong.

Back to school tradition of service and community pride

For more than three decades, the back to school project has been a pillar of support in Miami-Dade County. The Kiwanis of Little Havana Foundation, deeply rooted in this community, has long understood that access to school supplies is about more than pencils and notebooks—it’s about leveling the playing field for children who might otherwise start the year at a disadvantage.

Thanks to the generosity of the Miami Marlins Foundation and sponsors such as Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, Integrity Wealth Advisory of Janney Montgomery Scott, LLC, and Pension Services, Inc., the initiative continues to grow in both reach and impact. Each backpack handed out is more than just a bag of supplies—it’s a symbol of hope, opportunity, and the unwavering support of a community that believes in its future leaders.

Throughout the week-long effort, students walked away with backpacks full of notebooks, crayons, rulers, and more—essentials that many families struggle to afford. Parents expressed relief, while children’s faces lit up with excitement at the thought of walking into class fully prepared.

Local partnerships creating lasting change

The success of this initiative is made possible through collaboration. Volunteers from the Kiwanis of Little Havana Foundation, Miami Marlins staff, and community leaders rolled up their sleeves to distribute supplies, share words of encouragement, and remind students that they have a network of support behind them.

For Miami, this initiative highlights the importance of community partnerships. It shows what can be achieved when local organizations, corporate sponsors, and civic leaders work together for a common cause. Each year, the ripple effect grows—creating stronger families, empowering teachers, and shaping a brighter future for Miami-Dade’s youth.

The Back to School Project has become more than just an event—it’s a celebration of unity, resilience, and pride in a community that never stops giving back.

Closing thoughts

Events like this remind us why Little Havana is at the heart of Miami’s story—its people, organizations, and traditions come together to make an impact that extends far beyond the neighborhood. As the new school year begins, the Kiwanis of Little Havana Foundation and its partners have once again ensured that thousands of children are starting off with confidence and support.

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