Daggett Shuler and Winston-Salem Police Department Continue Annual Tradition of Giving Back with 12th Backpack Program (2026)

As families across the Triad prepare for a new school year, the cost of school supplies can place added pressure on many households. At Daggett Shuler, we believe every child deserves to begin the school year with all of the tools they need to succeed.

That’s why we’re proud to partner once again with the Winston-Salem Police Department (WSPD) for our 12th Annual Back-to-School Backpack Program, helping hundreds of local students start the school year feeling prepared, supported, and confident.

Supporting Students Across Our Community

This year, 325 students will receive brand-new backpacks filled with essential school supplies.

The program will provide:

250 backpacks to students at five Winston-Salem/Forsyth County elementary schools:

• Moore Elementary
• Bolton Elementary
• South Fork Elementary
• Whitaker Elementary
• Brunson Elementary

75 additional backpacks will also be served through the William G. White Jr. YMCA’s Bright Beginnings Program.

School administrators work closely with our team to identify students and families who can benefit most, ensuring the backpacks reach children with the greatest need.

More Than Just School Supplies

Each backpack is carefully packed with everything students need for a successful first day of school, including:

• Notebook
• Pencil pouch
• Pencils
• Two-pocket folder
• Glue
• Scissors
• Crayons
• Earbuds

One feature that makes this program especially meaningful is that the backpacks are intentionally selected in a variety of colors and without logos. This simple decision helps ensure every child can carry their backpack with pride, without feeling insecure or singled out.

A Strong Start Makes a Difference

Research has consistently shown that a positive start to the school year can have a lasting impact on a child’s academic success and overall confidence.

“Research shows that a good first day of school can change the trajectory of a young person’s life. However, for many families, the start of the new school year can bring added financial stress,” said David Daggett. “This program is about removing one obstacle for families so students can focus on learning, growing, and reaching their potential.”

At Daggett Shuler, giving back to our community has always been part of who we are. We know that when children feel prepared on day one, they’re better positioned to succeed throughout the school year.

A Partnership Built on Community

The Backpack Program succeeds because of the dedicated organizations and individuals who work together each year.

Members of the Winston-Salem Police Department assist in packing and delivering the backpacks to local schools, creating opportunities for officers to connect with students and families in positive, meaningful ways.

“What makes this program special is the partnership behind it,” said Griff Shuler. “From our

Daggett Shuler team, the Winston-Salem Police Department, and the YMCA to school administrators, everyone plays a role. The schools know their students best and help ensure these backpacks reach the children and families who will benefit most.”

Chief William Penn of the Winston-Salem Police Department emphasized the importance of these relationships.

“This backpack program is about more than school supplies. It gives our officers the opportunity to build positive relationships with students and families while supporting educational success. We are proud to partner with Daggett Shuler to support our students, who are the future of our community.”

Extending Our Reach Through the YMCA

The William G. White Jr. YMCA’s Bright Beginnings Program provides school supplies, clothing, and other resources to children and families throughout the Winston-Salem community.

By donating 75 backpacks to the program, Daggett Shuler and the Winston-Salem Police Department can extend the impact of this initiative beyond local elementary schools and reach even more children preparing for the new school year.

“Every backpack represents encouragement, opportunity, and community support,” said Richard Daniels, Vice President of Community Engagement and Executive Director of the William G. White Jr. YMCA. “When a child receives a new backpack filled with supplies, they know people care about their future. We are grateful for partners like Daggett Shuler and the Winston-Salem Police Department, who continue to invest in local students year after year.”

Twelve Years of Making a Difference

Since the Backpack Program began, more than 3,000 backpacks have been distributed to students throughout the Winston-Salem area.

What started as a simple idea has become an annual tradition centered on one mission: removing barriers so children can focus on learning and achieving their goals.

As we celebrate the program’s 12th year, we’re grateful for our partners, volunteers, school leaders, and community members who help make this effort possible.

Committed to Serving Our Community

At Daggett Shuler, our commitment to serving North Carolina extends beyond the courtroom. Whether we’re advocating for injured clients or supporting local families through community initiatives like the Backpack Program, we believe in investing in the people and neighborhoods that make the Triad such a special place to live.

We wish every student, teacher, and family a successful, safe, and exciting school year.

Together, we’re helping ensure every child starts the year knowing their community believes in them.