Blessing Bags Support People Experiencing Homelessness

April 14, 2021

When Isaac Garcia '24's family moved from Inver Grove Heights to St. Paul, he became aware of homelessness, and asked his parents what he could do to help.

That Christmas, he put food and supplies on his wish list. He led his 6th-grade class at Community of Saints in figuring out what people would need, and then collecting that gear into "Blessing Bags." The bags were distributed directly to people experiencing homelessness.

He has continued the tradition of collecting and distributing the supplies for four years now, working in partnership with Community of Saints, St. Matthew's church, and his Native community.

"I've learned that it doesn't take much to make a difference, especially if you have people to help you," he said.

Isaac's Blessing Bags is now a 501(c)(3) organization, led by his mom, Tara Perron. Garcia plans to take over as Executive Director once he turns 18. In the meantime, their outreach continues to grow, as they distribute food and clothing around the city and are moving forward with plans to use a U-Haul as a free store.

Learn more about Isaac's Blessing Bags in this 2018 video from the Aim Higher Foundation.