Our Presidio Education® SF Impact Project 2020
Presidio Education® donating backpacks filled with hygiene supplies to the homeless as part of our SF Impact Project 2020. Part of the English Department carrying backpacks to a row of tents in the San Francisco Warehouse District. Photograph by Martin Nobida, English Teacher, 2020.
Presidio Education® SF Impact Project Logo, 2020.
A Call to Compassion and Action
On Saturday, October 31, 2020, Presidio Education® embarked on a mission to support San Francisco’s homeless community during a time of unprecedented need. Our goal was simple yet profound: to provide essential hygiene supplies and show our neighbors that they are seen, valued, and not forgotten.
What We Distributed
We assembled 100 backpacks and filled them with a combined total of:
1,100 face masks – to protect against COVID-19
900 bottles of soap – for hand hygiene
600 pairs of socks – a basic necessity often overlooked
200 bottles of hand sanitizer – to reduce the spread of germs
Toilet kits – for personal hygiene
First aid kits – to address minor health issues
Clothing items – to provide warmth and dignity
Feminine hygiene products – to support women in need
Toilet paper – a fundamental yet scarce resource
Reusable BPA-free water bottles – to encourage hydration and reduce waste
Drinks and non-perishable food items – to nourish and sustain
These items were carefully selected to address the immediate needs of individuals experiencing homelessness, particularly during the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Homeless man sitting on a scooter in the Warehouse District. He was very humble and appreciative of the backpack and extra food we gave him. Photograph by Martin Nobida, English Teacher, 2020.
The Reality of Homelessness in San Francisco
In 2019, the City and County of San Francisco estimated that 9,808 individuals were experiencing homelessness, a significant increase from previous years. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated this crisis, forcing many individuals out of shelters to avoid close contact, leaving them vulnerable on the streets without access to basic necessities or medical care.
Witnessing this reality firsthand was both humbling and eye-opening. It underscored the urgency of compassionate action and the profound impact that even small gestures can have on individuals facing immense hardships.
Groups of homeless at South of Market (SOMA) happily showing their Presidio Education® backpacks. Photograph by Martin Nobida, English Teacher, 2020.
Many of the homeless struggle to get their lives on track. Yes, some may have drug problems, as we encountered, or even have criminal records, which is why they cannot secure employment. But to give up on these people would not be the San Francisco way. We believe in treating each other with dignity and kindness. We believe in second chances.
Homeless man in the Warehouse District who was excited to talk about one day getting surgery to repair the inside of his mouth. Photograph by Martin Nobida, English Teacher, 2020.
A Story of Selflessness
One encounter that deeply moved our team involved a homeless family at Ocean Beach. They received backpacks filled with supplies and expressed their gratitude by offering to share their items with others in need. Their selflessness and concern for their neighbors highlighted the shared humanity that binds us all and reinforced the importance of community support.
If we do not help these homeless get back on their feet, or at least show them that there is still hope, what kind of example would we set for younger generations? How would our students look up to us? Sometimes the homeless just have bad luck, but that does not mean we should give up on them. Sometimes just a little bit of compassion can go a long way to restoring faith in communities. We can only marvel at the prospect of what would happen if all students worked together to end poverty.
These homeless families at Ocean Beach were exceptionally polite and grateful. When we gave these men some backpacks, they thanked us and asked if they could give their backpacks to their neighbors because they felt others needed them more. We were so overwhelmed by this selflessness, that we brought more backpacks for all of them that we did not see. Photograph by Martin Nobida, English Teacher, 2020.
We would like to thank everyone who helped make our SF Impact Project 2020 possible. Many drove around the Bay Area back and forth to pick up giant boxes full of supplies, stayed up late to inventory and package, assembled water bottles and distributed backpacks. Many sacrificed their time outside of work all to give back to our homeless community. We are thankful for all the teamwork and kindness.
Presidio Education® handing out backpacks to the homeless across from San Francisco City Hall. Photograph by Martin Nobida, English Teacher, 2020.
A Call to Action
This project was not just about distributing supplies—it was about fostering empathy, understanding, and a commitment to making a tangible difference in our community. It was a reminder that each of us has the power to contribute to positive change, regardless of our circumstances.
We encourage students, parents, and community members—especially those from affluent backgrounds—to reflect on the privileges they hold and consider how they can use those privileges to uplift others. Volunteering time, donating resources, or simply offering a kind word can have a profound impact on individuals and communities in need.
Join Us in Making a Difference
Presidio Education® remains committed to supporting our community through initiatives like the SF Impact Project. We invite you to join us in these efforts, whether by participating in future projects, organizing your own initiatives, or finding other ways to contribute to the well-being of those around you. Together, we can create a more compassionate and equitable society, one action at a time.
Please contact our Sustainability Team to find out how you can join our Impact Projects to combat homelessness. Even a small act of kindness can go a long way!
Among other components, we packed new backpacks with 1,100 masks, 900 bottles of soap, 600 pairs of socks, 200 bottles of sanitizer, toilet kits, first aid kits, clothes, feminine products, toilet paper, reusable Bisphenol-A (BPA)-free water bottles, drinks and food all for the homeless. Photograph by Martin Nobida, English Teacher, 2020.
