FAQ

  • Misión Mochila is a nonprofit organization (501(c)(3)) that provides underprivileged children in El Salvador with backpacks filled with essential items like school supplies, clothing, hygiene products, and a toy…plus a whole lot of love!

  • Each backpack includes:

    • A full outfit (shirt, pants, or Dresses)

    • School supplies (notebook, colored pencils, crayons, pencils, ruler, sharpener, erasers, glue, & scissors)

    • Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap bars, shampoo, & deodorant)

    • A toy

    • A special note or letter during the holidays

  • On average, each backpack costs between $40 to $45 to put together.

  • Yes! Misión Mochila is a registered 501(c)(3) organization, so your donation may be tax-deductible. Be sure to save your receipt for tax purposes.

  • You can donate through our website (monetary or item donations), shop from our Amazon Wish List, or contact us directly for drop-off or shipping info.

  • Not at all! The wishlist is just a guide. We’re happy to receive any new items that are age-appropriate and in good condition.

  • We serve children from 4 to 18 years old in underserved communities in El Salvador.

  • Absolutely! We love volunteers. You can help by:

    • Packing backpacks

    • Helping at events

    • Writing holiday letters to the children

    • Spreading the word

  • Yes! One beautiful way kids can participate is by writing Christmas letters or drawings to include in the backpacks. It’s a sweet and meaningful way to share kindness across borders.

  • We partner with schools in vulnerable areas of El Salvador. Our team carefully selects schools and works with local educators to identify the students most in need.

  • Our big distribution event happens every December and includes a celebration with music, food, clowns, and gifts for teachers too!

  • We welcome corporate sponsorships, in-kind donations, or hosting a toy or supply drive. Email us and we’ll work together to make an impact.

  • No, we do not include undergarments in the backpacks.

  • We kindly ask for new items only to ensure that every child feels special and receives something that’s just for them.

  • Currently, yes. Our focus is on schools in El Salvador, but we hope to expand in the future!

  • Our big Misión Mochila celebration is held in December for three beautiful reasons:

    1. A Fresh Start for a New School Year
      In El Salvador, the school year begins in January. By giving out backpacks in December, we ensure that every child starts their new year feeling prepared, confident, and excited with everything they need to succeed.

    2. A Special Christmas Outfit
      Most of us love to wear something new or special for the holidays and these children are no different. The outfit inside the backpack becomes their Christmas best, helping them feel proud, seen, and full of joy during one of the most meaningful times of the year.

    3. A Toy to Bring Joy
      Many parents in these communities simply can’t afford to buy gifts during Christmas. So when a child opens their backpack and finds a toy inside, it becomes more than just a present, it’s a moment of pure happiness. And every child deserves that magic.

    December isn’t just about giving things, it’s about creating memories, sharing love, and bringing smiles that last far beyond the holiday season.