Handbags & Backpacks for Hope

Every bag you give represents hope in a moment of crisis.

ABOUT

Our Handbags & Backpacks for Hope campaign collects NEW purses, totes, diaper bags, and backpacks for victims across Texas. The campaign helps lead those experiencing abuse to safety and independence by providing access to our FREE legal and social services.

Each bag features a discreet tag with TAP’s Legal Line, 800.374.HOPE, and a QR code linking to resources and information about our services. Bags are then distributed to shelters, clinics, and crisis centers across Texas.

Our 2026 campaign runs from June 1st to June 30th. While participating collection partners may begin gathering bags and backpacks before the official launch, TAP can only accept donations during the designated campaign dates due to limited storage capacity and resources. Please also note that starting this year, we will no longer be collecting school supplies to include in the backpacks.

WAYS TO GET INVOLVED

Collect Handbags, Diaper Bags, Tote Bags, and Backpacks! | If you'd like to participate as a drop-off location, or host a drive or collection event please fill out our Collection Form.
- Public Drop Off Location: Set up a large box in a prominent area with our Bin Poster attached so the public can drop off their bags.
- Private Drive/Collection Event: Host a workplace drive, lunch or happy hour with friends, etc., where attendees can bring bags and/or cash donations!
Donate a Bag or Backpack | Donate a new handbag, diaper bag, tote bag, or backpack at one of our official Public Drop-Off Locations (see map below)! If you are outside of Central Texas and the locations listed aren't feasible, please email us at [email protected] to arrange a shipment.
Volunteer Your Time | Prepare our bags for shipment! Help affix a discreet tag onto each bag and backpack that lists TAP's Legal Line, connecting victims to information about our free legal and social services. Fill out our Volunteer Form to sign up for a shift!
- Tentative Volunteer Days: June 28 - July 3rd, July 6 - 15
Unable to shop or collect? | Make a donation to our general fund to help with expenses such as shipping costs needed to fulfill all Handbags & Backpacks for Hope!

2026 PUBLIC DROP-OFF LOCATIONS

SPONSOR

JOIN US AS A SPONSOR

Thank You to Our 2026 Sponsors!

HOPE CHAMPION SPONSORS

EMPOWERMENT SPONSORS

FRIENDS OF HOPE SPONSORS

IN-KIND SPONSORS

HISTORY

Since 2008, Texas Advocacy Project has provided survivors with a vital resource: a bag filled with tools for safety, support, and empowerment. Whether it was a handbag, tote, diaper bag, or backpack, each carried more than just belongings, it carried hope.

Originally, TAP’s Handbags for Hope campaign placed purses into the hands of survivors, offering them a discreet way to carry essentials and legal resources. In 2019, the program expanded to hospitals to support survivors of sexual assault, ensuring they could leave with dignity instead of a plastic bag. By 2021, TAP introduced diaper bags to serve new parents and caregivers, reaching at-risk moms-to-be who face an increased risk of domestic abuse.

At the same time, Backpacks for Hope focused on children in shelters across Texas. New backpacks were filled with school supplies for the year ahead and fitted with a discreet tag listing TAP’s Legal Line (800.374.HOPE) ensuring that families knew where to turn for free legal and social services. These backpacks provided stability and a sense of normalcy for children who are facing abusive situations.

Now, these two powerful campaigns have joined forces under one initiative, expanding TAP’s ability to reach survivors of all ages. Whether it’s a survivor leaving a hospital, a mother preparing for a new baby, or a child starting fresh at a new school, each bag is more than just a necessity, it’s a step toward a safer future.

Make a Donation