by Mike Matzinger
Alpha Phi Omega (APO) marked its national convention and 100th birthday in Philadelphia by putting service front and center. In Center City, members and alumni of the national service fraternity partnered with Comfort Cases to pack backpacks for youth in foster care across the region.
Each backpack included essentials such as blankets, hygiene kits, toys, and books. For many children entering foster care, belongings are often carried in trash bags. These backpacks provide a more dignified and durable alternative, offering comfort during an uncertain time.
The effort was supported by Comfort Cases founder Rob Scheer and volunteers from across the community, demonstrating the power of service at scale. With approximately 4,500 children in foster care in Philadelphia and nearly 14,000 across Pennsylvania, initiatives like this play an important role in supporting vulnerable youth.
APO is a national, co-educational service fraternity of college students gathered together in an organization based on fraternalism founded on Scouting America principles. Its purpose is to develop leadership, promote friendship, and serve humanity.
https://www.fox29.com/news/500-backpacks-filled-philadelphia-foster-kids-student-volunteers