"I call myself the accidental teacher. When I graduated, I couldn't find a job," Young remembers.
She told us she eventually found a career in teaching after getting hired at a job fair, "When I go back and think... it was a purpose, and now it's my passion."
Today, Miss Young teaches second grade at KIPP Legacy Preparatory. Young works with students from a low-income community where many families face financial hardships.
"I like to make sure when the kids come to school to learn that it is fun, and that they have everything they need," Young said. "I want the parents to know that I'm here to support them no matter what."
That's why programs like the Houston Food Bank's school supply program mean so much to her. They provide much-needed school supplies, helping set up her students for success.
"The importance of giving - when a person gives them something, and it's for them for a reason to make them a better person, they will never lose that. They will never lose that memory," she said.
She knows the impact those gifts can have because she experienced it herself growing up.
That experience continues to shape the way she teaches today.
"That's why I like working in schools like this because I see myself. I want to give these kids the same opportunity, no matter how much has to come out of my pocket," Young shares. "I'm thankful for Teachers Aid for donating to these kids because it truly makes a difference."
ABC13 Loves Teachers
Join us for the ABC13 Loves Teachers School Supply Drive happening Friday, July 31, 2026. Now in its third year, the event benefits the Houston Food Bank's School Programs, with all money raised and supplies collected staying local and going toward area teachers.
There are two easy ways for the community to join our efforts right now. You can text ABC13Teachers to 71777. Or you can make a donation online.
Then join us on July 31 for our all-day community drive, where you can stop by any of the sites below to drop off new school supply donations.
Houston
- Houston Food Bank
- 535 Portwall St., Houston, TX 77029
- Drop-off hours: 6 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Houston/Montrose area
- The Ismaili Center
- 2323 Allen Parkway, Houston, TX 77019
- Drop-off hours: 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Galveston
- Galveston ISD Support Center
- 3904 Avenue T, Galveston, TX 77550
- Drop-off hours: 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Richmond/Rosenberg
- VFW Hall - Post 3903
- 1903 1st St., Rosenberg, TX 77471
- Drop-off hours: 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Sugar Land
- Ismaili Jamatkhana - Sugar Land
- 1700 First Colony Boulevard, Sugar Land, TX 77479
- Hours: 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
How does the Houston Food Bank help teachers and families specifically?
This year, school supplies from the Teachers Aid program (now part of Backpack Buddy) are being delivered directly to campuses enrolled in Houston Food Bank's Backpack Buddy program all year long.
For Teachers: If you are at a participating Backpack Buddy school, your campus leadership will coordinate supply distribution directly on site; no applications or travel required.
For Families: While the Houston Food Bank does not distribute school supplies directly to individuals or families, their goal is to lift the financial burden on households in other ways. If your family needs assistance with food or seasonal resources, please visit houstonfoodbank.org/findhelp or call the helpline at 832-369-9390 to connect with a nearby partner pantry.