Packs of Love in Cambridge

by Hugo Bravo

In February, The Salvation Army of Massachusetts and Samsonite hosted “Packs of Love.” That day, over 300 CITYPAK backpacks, travel equipment with features designed to meet the needs of people experiencing homelessness, were distributed at The Salvation Army Cambridge Shelter. 

CITYPAK backpacks are manufactured by High Sierra, Samsonite’s outdoor gear brand. They include bottom and side compression straps to carry bedding or larger items, reflective strips for better visibility at night, and waterproof zippered pockets. Each pack also has an integrated rain poncho for wearing during inclement weather.  

Every backpack given away at Packs of Love came filled with essential supplies, including feminine hygiene products from Dignity Matters and coats from Coats for Kids and Families. Employees from Samsonite’s office in Mansfield, Mass., which donated the backpacks, took time to assist with the distribution. Lunch was provided by Chef Paul Wahlberg from Wahlburgers and The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services. 

“It was a pleasure to see everyone work together,” said Karen Meeham, director of operations at the Cambridge Corps. “The faces of the people we help lit up as they received such a beautiful gift from such kind people.” 

The CITYPAK Project works with nonprofits that help individuals during periods of homelessness or those who are in housing transition. Since CITYPAK’s inception in 2012, the CITYPAK Project has distributed over 104,000 PAKs in over 200 cities worldwide. 

“The collaboration between CITYPAK, Samsonite, and The Salvation Army showed love in action to some of the most vulnerable in our communities,” said Captain Bree Barker, corps officer at the Cambridge Corps. “Volunteers from each group were compassionate, generous, and enthusiastic to share packs of love with local residents experiencing homelessness—bringing hope and a smile to those in need.” 

Captain Trisha Smouse, corps officer at Cambridge, added, “At The Salvation Army, we believe in the power of collaboration to bring hope and dignity to those experiencing homelessness. Through partnerships like CityPak and Samsonite and the generosity of Paul Wahlberg and our community allies, we are able to provide not just essential resources but also compassion and care that make a lasting impact.”