Outreach Initiatives

Objective: OPERATION Backpacks of Joy is dedicated to supporting Joy Bull's remarkable initiative, "Backpacks for Homeless." This project provides homeless individuals with essential items packed in backpacks, helping them meet their basic needs and maintain a sense of dignity.

Overview: For over two years, Joy Bull has selflessly funded and managed "Backpacks for Homeless," providing essential items to those in need. Building Stronger Veterans is proud to support and promote her efforts through Operation Joy, ensuring that more homeless individuals receive the care and supplies they need. Here is her personal story behind how "Backpacks for Homeless" began:

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"My name is Joy Bull, and I started my journey to help the homeless in December 2021. My son is a veteran and would participate in events held at the Idaho Veterans Garden in Caldwell Idaho. I started going as well to support the garden's cause and do some volunteer work.

I met a man at the Garden sometime in 2019 or 2020. It seemed like every time I would go to the Garden Jimmy would be there helping with anything that needed to be done. I'd take snacks or water when I'd go just to share something refreshing in the heat of the summer. As I got to know Jimmy, I learned he was homeless and stayed part time at the Garden. It broke my heart to know a person has nowhere to stay. I started taking him food that I prepared at home, so he'd at least have a home cooked meal to look forward to.

After I retired, I decided to put something together for the homeless community. I started a GOFUNDME hoping to get support from other people looking to help a good cause. A few hundred came in which gave me a good start, although the naysayers were accusing me of being a fraud/scammer. I didn't let that discourage me though and decided to move forward funding the rest of what was needed to move forward on my own. With the donations I was able to receive combined with what I was able to afford to purchase on my own, I was able to put together 30 full backpacks which I delivered to the homeless living at what they called at that time "Tent City" in Boise, and to the warming shelter on Americana in Boise. They were so grateful and surprised anyone would do that for them. The next batch went to the Idaho Veterans Garden who gave them to anyone in need.

Typically, I was able to fill 20-30 backpacks a month. As time progressed, I saw the need was greater and doubled down on my efforts. It is now not uncommon to take 50 or more out at a time. I buy used and new items as often as I have funds for. Most of the contents I am currently purchasing on Amazon. I take donations of backpacks, good condition reusable water bottles, napkins, reusable bowls, sporks, sweatshirts, coats, new socks, and blankets. I also collect things like cans of soup, mints, gum, candy, Emergin C power mix, lemonade packs, oatmeal packets, fruit snacks, and cookies. I add a large zip lock bag full of nutritional protein options like tuna, jerky, peperone sticks, peanut butter, nuts, and protein bars to every backpack. As well as a large zip lock bag full of essential hygiene items. I also like to add a handwritten note written by me to each backpack in hopes that it gives them words of encouragement and support. During the winter put in extra effort at gathering things like beanie's, gloves, and scarfs.  

The unfortunate truth is there are also children who suffer from homelessness. I fill some backpacks with items that are specifically for children like coloring books, crayons, and activity books. 

Caldwell Salvation Army and the Caldwell Veterans Memorial Hall have received hundreds of backpacks combined to support this cause since I began. I volunteer at the local food bank so when there is an abundance of something I pass it on to those I know need it. Every backpack's content may vary slightly based on what items I was able to gather at that time. My goal is to include as many as I can, letting each of them know they MATTER!"

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Key Components:

1. Backpack Contents:

   • Hygiene Products: Soap, shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant, razors, and feminine hygiene products.

   • Food: Non-perishable snacks, canned goods, and nutritious food items.

   • Reusable Items: Water bottles and plastic cereal bowls.

   • Clothing: Socks, gloves, beanies, and scarves.

   • Additional Items: Blankets, first aid kits, and other essentials that can provide comfort and safety.

2. Distribution:

   • Monthly Outreach: Backpacks will be distributed monthly at various locations, including shelters, parks, and through street outreach teams.

   • Community Events: Special distribution events will be organized to reach more individuals and create a supportive community atmosphere.

3. Support and Expansion:

   • Partnership with Joy Bull: Collaborating closely with Joy Bull to ensure her vision and experience guide the expansion of this initiative.

   • Funding and Donations: Seeking financial support and donations of items to increase the number of backpacks distributed each month.

Ways you can help!:

• Volunteers Needed: Help us pack and distribute backpacks, organize events, and provide support services during outreach efforts.

• Donations: Contributions of food, hygiene products, clothing, and financial donations are crucial to sustain and expand Operation Backpacks of Joy.

Impact: Operation Backpacks of Joy aims to build on Joy Bull's incredible work by reaching more homeless individuals and providing them with the essentials they need to survive and thrive. Each backpack is a step towards restoring hope and dignity to those in need.

Contact Us: For more information on how to get involved or support Operation Joy, please contact us at info@buildingstrongerveterans.org.