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 25 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.
TRANSLATIONS
2026 Back-to-School Backpack Information
2026 Distribution Dates
BASED ON PARENT/CAREGIVER’S LAST NAME
| Last names A – C | Monday, August 17 | 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM |
| Last names D – G | Tuesday, August 18 | 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM |
| Last names H – L | Thursday, August 20 | 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM |
| Last names M – P | Friday, August 21 | 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM |
| Last names Q – Z | Saturday, August 22 | 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM |
| A – Z Make-up Day | Monday, August 24 | 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM |
| A – Z Make-up Day | Tuesday, August 25 | 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM |
Please DO NOT arrive early. Backpacks will not be given out until all paperwork is received.
Required Distribution Documents
THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS ARE REQUIRED AT BACKPACK DISTRIBUTION
- Identification for your children (Birth certificate, school ID, or report card)
- Picture ID for yourself
- Proof of Beverly, Hamilton, Wenham, Manchester, or Essex residency (mail postmarked within the last 30 days)
- Completed Client Update Form:
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.
Can I pick up backpacks for someone else’s child?
Backpacks are intended for children in your legal care. If you’re helping another family, please have them reach out to us directly. Call 978-927-1561 x129 or email keaton@beverlybootstraps.org.
What is included in the backpack?
Each backpack is filled with grade-appropriate school supplies to help students start the year prepared.
How much does it cost to participate in the program?
The backpacks and supplies are provided free of charge to eligible families.
How can I make sure I don’t miss out in 2026?
Check back in June 2026 for distribution information. Have additional questions? Email keaton@beverlybootstraps.org
