Micah House’s Back2School Jam draws record turnout

REDLANDS, Calif. — More than 1,200 backpacks stuffed with school supplies, 140 free haircuts, and 500 hot dogs were just some of the highlights from this year’s Back2School Jam, organized by Micah House and city of Redlands to support students and families as they prepare for the new school year.

The annual event, held earlier this month, was Micah House’s largest yet, drawing hundreds of local families for a day of giveaways, community resources, and hands-on fun.

“For many families, the back-to-school season brings real challenges—limited resources, long work hours, and language barriers," said Emma Osterberg de Rodas, executive director of Micah House, in a statement. “Micah House is honored to organize the Back2School Jam to help bridge the gap and set students up for a strong year ahead."

The event provided:

• 1,200 backpacks with school supplies, including 830 distributed at the event and the rest delivered to Redlands Unified School District and local nonprofits
• 500 hot dogs grilled and served by the Redlands Police Department
• 140 free haircuts from Street Shaves and its team of 27 volunteer barbers
• 30 bicycles gifted to students
• Hundreds of new books from the Redlands Book Mobile and A.K. Smiley Public Library
• 45 new library cards issued
• 35 community booths offering activities, refreshments, and information
• Hands-on experiences with a police SWAT vehicle, fire engine, and a crowd-pleasing foam pit

The event was supported by more than 40 community partners, including Redlands Police Officers Association, Redlands Fire Department, A.K. Smiley Public Library, Crafton Hills College, Redlands Community Hospital, Street Shaves, SEPTA, Starbucks, Walmart, UC Master Gardeners, the Kiwanis Club of Redlands, and the University of Redlands.

The organization thanked all of its 2025 event partners for making the Back2School Jam a success.

“Your generosity made this day possible and unforgettable,” Osterberg de Rodas said.

About Micah House

Micah House, located in a high-need area of Redlands, provides year-round programs such as tutoring, homework help, reading support and youth development activities.

Micah House Redlands - Chapel
611 Chapel St. | Redlands, CA 92374
(909) 747-1440

Micah House Redlands - Oxford
1006 Oxford St. | Redlands, CA 92374
(909) 747-1440

Hours: Monday-Thursday, 2:00-4:30 pm