The L.E.A.R.N. Foundation Inc. Empowers Children in Dominican Republic with Back-to-School Backpack Drive

Children eagerly line up in the Dominican Republic, anticipating the moment they receive their new backpacks.

Paulding County, GA — Building on its successful local outreach, the L.E.A.R.N. Foundation Inc. has expanded its impact internationally by donating 50 backpacks filled with essential school supplies and hygiene items to students in the Dominican Republic. This international effort followed the Foundation’s recent donation of approximately 400 backpacks to students across Paulding County and surrounding areas — part of its annual back-to-school initiative aimed at removing barriers to education and promoting student success.

Each backpack sent to the Dominican Republic was thoughtfully packed with notebooks, pencils, crayons, folders, and other classroom necessities, along with personal hygiene items such as toothbrushes, soap, and hand sanitizer by volunteers and staff. The goal: to help students start the school year with confidence, dignity, and the tools they need to thrive.

“We’re proud to extend our mission beyond our local communities,” said Dr. Lemelle CEO and founder of the L.E.A.R.N. Foundation. “After supporting hundreds of students here at home, we saw an opportunity to make a meaningful difference abroad. Every child deserves the chance to succeed in school, and we’re honored to support that journey.”

The donation was made possible through the generosity of local volunteers and donors, and distributed in partnership with community leaders in the Dominican Republic who ensured the supplies reached students in need.

Community partners united to support local families by hosting a backpack distribution event at a neighborhood clubhouse. The accessible location ensured every child could benefit from the initiative, which provided essential school supplies and hygiene items. Beyond equipping students for success, the event strengthened community bonds and highlighted the power of collective support.

This initiative reflects The Learn Foundation’s broader commitment to educational equity and community empowerment, including its ongoing work with over 600 veterans through the Veterans Upward Bound program in Paulding County and surrounding areas.