Freedom Mortgage, a full-service, independent mortgage company and a Veterans Administration and Federal Housing Administration lender, kicks off its annual Rucksacks to Backpacks fundraising campaign in partnership with the United Service Organizations (USO), providing necessary school supplies for many children of active-duty military, National Guard members and Reservists.

The campaign runs through July 31. Freedom Mortgage welcomes anyone to join in and make an online donation.

“This program is a proud tradition at Freedom Mortgage, as it strengthens our ongoing commitment to those who serve, along with their families,” Freedom Mortgage President and CEO Stanley Middleman said. “We’re thankful to the USO for giving us this opportunity to give back each year and help ensure that, across the country, many military families and their children will be well prepared for the upcoming school year.”

Over the years, Freedom Mortgage has donated over 35,000 backpacks and 70,000 school supply items, including pens, notebooks and folders for military children. 

The Rucksacks to Backpacks program benefits military children in locations such as Arizona, California, Florida, Indiana, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. USO centers will distribute back-to-school supplies locally this July and August to help meet the needs of military families with children.

“We are grateful to Freedom Mortgage for their support and partnership with the USO,” Ben Leslie, USO chief development officer, said. “This program brings great joy to military kids and families across the United States and helps them get ready for a new school year.”