Bellevue University Kicks Off Veteran Backpack Drive to Fill 100 Backpacks for Local Veterans
Bellevue University's Military Veteran Services Center has launched its annual Veteran Backpack Drive, a community donation drive the University has organized for more than 10 years. The 2026 campaign aims to fill 100 backpacks with essential items for veterans served by Siena Francis House and New Visions, with donations accepted now through Nov. 5, 2026.
Key Facts
- Bellevue University's Military Veteran Services Center is coordinating the 2026 Veteran Backpack Drive.
- The University has organized the drive annually for more than 10 years.
- The initiative supports veterans served by Siena Francis House and New Visions.
- The goal is to fill 100 backpacks with donated items.
- Donations will be accepted now through Nov. 5, 2026.
- Donation drop-offs may be made at 812 Bruin Blvd., Bellevue, NE 68005.
- Community members may contribute through the drive's Amazon Wishlist.
- Community members may make a monetary contribution through the Online Monetary Donation link.
- Volunteer Packing Event Registration
About the Veteran Backpack Drive
Bellevue University's Military Veteran Services Center is conducting its annual Veteran Backpack Drive to collect essential items for veterans served by Siena Francis House and New Visions. The 2026 campaign seeks to fill 100 backpacks with donated supplies. Donations will be accepted now through Nov. 5, 2026.
The success of the Veteran Backpack Drive reflects the commitment of our community and the many people who have supported this effort over the years. Students, employees, alumni, community partners and volunteers continue to make a difference through their donations and service, helping us provide essential items to veterans in our area.
Ways to Support the Drive
Community members can support the Veteran Backpack Drive by donating requested items, making a monetary contribution, or purchasing items through the drive's Amazon Wishlist. Donations may be dropped off at 812 Bruin Blvd., Bellevue, NE 68005, now through Nov. 5, 2026.
- Amazon Wishlist
- Online Monetary Donation
- Donation Drop-Off Location (812 Bruin Blvd., Bellevue, NE 68005)
Critical Items Needed
The Veteran Backpack Drive is collecting the following items:
- Individually packaged snacks
- Winter gloves
- Winter hats
- Scarves
- Socks
- Blankets
- Towels
- Baby wipes
- Razors
- Shaving cream
- Nail clippers
- Shampoo
- Liquid body soap
- Toothbrush cases
- Toothpaste
- Mouthwash
- Hand warmers
- Foot warmers
Volunteer Packing Event
The Veteran Backpack Drive will conclude with a volunteer packing event on Friday, Nov. 6, 2026, at 10 a.m. at Bellevue University's Military Veteran Services Center, 812 Bruin Blvd., Bellevue, Nebraska. Volunteers will help pack backpacks with donated supplies for veterans served by Siena Francis House and New Visions. Lunch will be provided for volunteers.
Students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members are invited to participate. The packing event serves as the final step in the donation drive before backpacks are distributed to partner organizations.
Individuals interested in volunteering are encouraged to register in advance so organizers can plan for participation and lunch. Questions may be directed to mvsc@bellevue.edu.
Founded in 1966, Bellevue University is a non-profit university with more than 70,000 graduates worldwide. The University is a recognized national leader in preparing students for lifelong success with career-relevant knowledge and skills, while making college affordable. Routinely ranked among the nation’s top military and accessible institutions, the University serves residential students at its main campus in Bellevue, Nebraska, and everywhere online with more than 85 degree programs uniquely designed for working adults. The University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org).