A new school year brings excitement, new opportunities, and — for many families — a long list of expenses. This August, our back-to-school drive is helping students start the year with the supplies they need to feel prepared and confident on their first day.
If you’re planning to donate, a few practical items can make an especially meaningful difference.
Start with the essentials
The best donations are often the things students use every day.
Backpacks, school uniforms, calculators, notebooks, folders, pencils, pens, and other classroom supplies can help families reduce the cost of getting ready for the new school year.
When choosing what to donate, think about items that are durable, practical, and ready to use. A quality backpack or calculator can support a student throughout the entire school year.
What families need most
While every family has different needs, some supplies consistently make a difference:
- Backpacks — durable backpacks that can hold books, folders, and everyday supplies.
- School uniforms — new or gently used uniforms in commonly needed sizes.
- Calculators — particularly for students taking math and science courses.
- Notebooks and folders — essential for keeping assignments and class materials organized.
- Pens and pencils — everyday supplies that students go through quickly.
- Art and classroom supplies — items such as colored pencils, markers, rulers, and scissors.
If you’re donating clothing or backpacks, please make sure they’re clean and in good condition.
Donate with students in mind
A useful donation doesn’t have to be expensive.
One complete backpack filled with basic supplies can give a student many of the tools they need for the first weeks of school. If you’re shopping for multiple students, consider purchasing supplies in larger quantities so your donation can stretch further.
You can also team up with friends, coworkers, neighbors, or your community group. A small contribution from several people can quickly become a collection of supplies that helps many students.
Why these donations matter
Starting school prepared is about more than having the right supplies.
For students and families facing financial pressure, the cost of uniforms, technology, classroom materials, and other school essentials can add up quickly. Providing these items can remove one more barrier and allow students to focus on learning, participating, and making the most of the school year.
That’s what makes a back-to-school drive so meaningful: practical support can have an immediate impact.
How to donate this August
If you’d like to participate, check our current donation list before shopping. It helps us prioritize the supplies families need most and makes sure donations reach students efficiently.
Whether you donate one backpack, a box of calculators, or a complete set of school supplies, your contribution can help a student walk into the new school year feeling ready.
Thank you for helping our students start the school year prepared, confident, and supported.