An Albuquerque establishment is stepping up to help children in need prepare for the new school year. Urban Rez Kitchen is raising money to provide 400 backpacks and school supplies. The effort aims to support families as they cope with back-to-school costs.
Urban Rez Kitchen owner Tyrone Arkie launched the fundraiser with Americans for Native Opportunity and the Native Leadership Collective. Together, they hope to equip hundreds of students with school materials before the 2026-2027 school year begins.
Arkie said he grew up with siblings and understands how quickly school supply costs can add up. He added that, as a father of two, he now spends more than $100 on the basics alone.
Arkie invited students and their families to attend the backpack drive and receive essential school supplies. The event will start at 9 a.m. on August 1 at Veterans Memorial in Louisiana, KOB 4 reported.
“When they come to the event, Aug. 1, they can get whatever they need, just like my kids. They need what they need,” Arkie said.
Urban Rez Kitchen can be found at the Rail Yards Market and Differential Brewing on Sundays. The group will also be at Summerfest and the Grants Pow-wow July 24.
Community Resource Fair
Meanwhile, Atrisco Heritage Academy High School is hosting its annual Community Resource Fair on July 25. The free event will be held from 9 a.m. to noon at the Atrisco Heritage Family Center. It will bring together families, community organizations, and local partners to connect the participants with resources and services that support student success throughout the school year.
Attendees can visit booths hosted by local organizations, learn about available services, and receive school supplies while they last.
The Family Center is also seeking school supply donations to help meet the growing needs of the South Valley community. Over the past several years, the event has distributed over 500 school supply bags to local families.
The Family Center is accepting donations until July 21. Donors can contribute backpacks, notebooks, pencils, folders, binders, crayons, glue sticks, scissors, tissues and other classroom essentials.
Organizations interested in participating or donating school supplies can register through the Community Resource Fair registration form. They can contact the Atrisco Heritage Family Center at 505-243-1458 ext. 60168 or [email protected] for more information.
