Good Fight Foundation Announces 2026 Backpack Giveaway For Acadiana Students
The Good Fight Foundation is once again stepping into the ring for Acadiana families, announcing the return of its annual Backpack Giveaway that has become one of the region's most anticipated back-to-school events.
Founded by Lafayette native and former UFC star Dustin "The Diamond" Poirier and his wife Jolie, the Good Fight Foundation continues its mission of giving back to the community through programs that directly impact local families.
This year's giveaway is scheduled for Tuesday, July 28, from 10 a.m. until noon, or until supplies run out, at Service Chevrolet Cadillac, located at 1212 Ambassador Caffery Parkway in Lafayette.
Families are encouraged to arrive early, as the event operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Annual Event Helps Thousands Of Local Students
Each year, the Good Fight Foundation provides backpacks filled with supplies based on the official Lafayette Parish School System supply lists.
The effort helps ensure students across Acadiana have the tools they need to start the school year prepared and confident.
According to the foundation, more than 1,000 children benefit from the giveaway annually. In 2025 alone, organizers reported that more than 1,200 students received backpacks and school supplies before the start of classes.
Community Partners Continue To Make It Possible
The annual giveaway has become a community-wide effort supported by local businesses, volunteers, and organizations.
Last year's event featured support from Service Chevrolet Cadillac, Deano's Pizza, HOT 107.9, and dozens of volunteers who helped distribute supplies to families throughout the morning.
This year, attendees can once again enjoy slices of pizza from Deano's Pizza while supplies are distributed. Following the 2025 event, the Good Fight Foundation thanked volunteers, sponsors, and families for helping make the giveaway another success, noting that every backpack distributed found a home with a local student.
Dustin Poirier Continues Giving Back After Retirement
While Dustin Poirier built a legendary career inside the UFC Octagon, his impact throughout Acadiana extends well beyond mixed martial arts. Officially launched in 2018, the Good Fight Foundation has supported numerous charitable initiatives throughout Louisiana and beyond. Even following his retirement from professional fighting, Poirier has continued focusing on the foundation's efforts alongside Jolie Poirier.
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The former interim UFC Lightweight Champion remains one of the most recognizable athletes to come out of Acadiana, but many local families know him just as well for his commitment to helping those in need.
What Families Need To Know
Families planning to attend should remember the following details:
- Date: Tuesday, July 28
- Time: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. or until supplies last
- Location: Service Chevrolet Cadillac, 1212 Ambassador Caffery Parkway, Lafayette
- Cost: Free
- Distribution: First come, first served (in person)
With the cost of school supplies continuing to rise, the annual giveaway provides meaningful relief for many Acadiana families while ensuring local students have what they need to begin the school year on the right foot.
For thousands of students and parents, it's one less thing to worry about before the first school bell rings.
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