Back-to-School Backpack Program

The Back-To-School Backpack program has been supplying new backpacks filled with school supplies to low-income families since 2001. The goal of this initiative is to help children start the school year off right with the supplies they need to achieve academic success.

Do you Need Help Affording Back to School Supplies?

About the Back-to-School Backpack Program

Helping students living in Beverly, Manchester, Essex, Hamilton and, Wenham, Massachusetts. Start the school year strong!

For over 21 years, Beverly Bootstraps’ Back-to-School Backpack Program has ensured that local children head into the school year feeling confident, prepared, and supported. By providing new backpacks filled with essential school supplies, this program eases the financial strain on families while setting students up for academic success.

Our 2025 backpack distribution is complete. Please reach out to your children’s school if they are in need of a backpack and school supplies.

Click here to receive an email when 2026 backpack distribution dates are announced.

Learn about Donating and getting involved

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to receive a backpack?

Students in grades K-12 living in Beverly, Manchester, Essex, Hamilton, or Wenham are eligible to receive backpacks and supplies through this program.

How do I sign up for the backpack program?

You do not need to sign up for this program in advance. Details about the backpack distribution will be shared in June.

What if my child has a different last name than I do?

Come on the distribution day that matches your last name (the parent or caregiver), not the child’s. If you can’t make it that day, you can come to a make-up distribution instead.