On Saturday, Aug. 1, 2026, 100 Houston-area foster children kicked off the new school year with confidence during an exclusive, pre-opening private shopping experience at the Target Houston Central Store. Through a longstanding partnership between The Junior League of Houston, Inc., Child Advocates and Target, the store opened its doors early, giving foster youth the opportunity to shop in a welcoming, stress-free environment before the public arrived.

Each child was paired with a Junior League volunteer who served as a personal shopper, helping them choose brand-new clothing, shoes and other back-to-school essentials. After shopping, new backpacks filled with school supplies were distributed to ensure children were equipped with everything they needed for a successful start to the school year. “This event is about so much more than school supplies; it’s about helping children feel seen, valued and able to experience the magic of back-to-school,” said Dionella Martinez, president of The Junior League of Houston. “Through our partnership with Child Advocates, we were able to provide these children with the essentials they need while creating a memorable experience that reminds them their community is cheering them on.”