Michael McGrath ’27 Donates Backpacks for a Brighter Start

For most students, summer is a time to relax. For Michael McGrath ’27, it's an opportunity to give back. Now in its sixth year, Michael’s backpack drive has grown from a simple idea the summer before sixth grade into an annual tradition of service. In total, the initiative has provided hundreds of backpacks filled with school supplies to students in need through Interfaith Social Services in Quincy.

Michael’s fundraising efforts have a unique twist. Every year, he pairs his fundraising goal with a personal challenge. Whether it’s running, learning a new language, rollerblading, or serving the community, the challenges motivate him while inspiring others to contribute.

“It’s about showing people I'm putting in the effort too,” says Michael. “It helps bring attention to the cause and gets people involved.”

This summer, Michael set his most ambitious goal yet, aiming for 100 backpacks and 100 hours of service. He completed many of those hours during a Xaverian Global Encounter trip to West Virginia, where he worked on a farm in rural Appalachia and served the local community alongside his fellow Hawks.

In August, Michael reached his goal of 100 backpacks, each one carefully assembled by hand and delivered to Interfaith Social Services. From sourcing affordable supplies to organizing and packing each bag, the process is largely a one-man operation. “It’s a lot of work,” Michael explained. “But when you see a room full of backpacks, it’s worth it. You realize how many kids you’re helping. I think about the relief for the parents and the confidence it gives kids. Being able to go to school prepared, not worrying about the supplies, that matters.”