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.
Helping Students Start Strong—Together for 25 years!
Back-to-School Backpack Program Drive
Since 2001, the 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 2026 goal is 975 brand-new backpacks—each filled with essential school supplies—that will be distributed to local students in need across Beverly, Manchester, Hamilton, Wenham, and Essex. Your support will set them up for a confident and successful school year.
how to help Local Students Start the School Year Strong
Donate school supplies online
You can make a direct impact by donating backpacks and school supplies through our online drives.
Can’t shop right now?
A financial donation is another meaningful way to help us meet the needs of local youth, individuals, and families throughout our community.
Prefer to Shop in Person?
BACKPACKS NEEDED
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- Elementary backpacks with water bottle sleeves
(approx. 17″H x 13″W x 9.5″D) - High school backpacks with padded laptop sleeves
(approx. 19″H x 13″W x 7.5″D)
- Elementary backpacks with water bottle sleeves
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New elementary or high school backpack donations can be dropped off at a local Community Collection Site. You may also drop or ship donations directly to: Beverly Bootstraps, 35 Park Street, Beverly, MA 01915
OTHER SUPPLIES NEEDED:
| No. 2 pencils (10-pack) | Crayola crayons (24-count) |
| Pens (blue, black, 10-12 pack) | Index cards (3 x 5”) |
| Crayola thin markers (10-count) | Composition book – wide ruled |
| Crayola thick markers (8-count) | Composition book – college ruled |
| Crayola colored pencils (12-count) |
Community Collection Site Locations
Drop off deadline: SUNday, July 10
BEVERLY
Beverly Public Library Children’s Room, 32 Essex St.
HAMILTON/WENHAM
The Community House, 284 Bay Rd.
MANCHESTER
Manchester Public Library, 15 Union St.
