A new backpack can’t solve every challenge a child faces, but it can help them walk into the first day of school feeling prepared, confident and ready to learn. Find out how you can support Catholic Charities of Oregon’s Back-to-School Supply Drive and help local students start the school year with the tools they need to succeed.
For many families, the start of a new school year brings excitement, fresh opportunities and a chance to dream about what lies ahead. But for others, it also brings difficult choices between paying rent, buying groceries or purchasing the supplies their children need to succeed in the classroom.
This summer, you can help change that.
Catholic Charities of Oregon is collecting new backpacks, school supplies and gift cards to help students start the school year prepared, confident and ready to learn. Your donations will support children and families served through our programs, including those rebuilding their lives after fleeing conflict, escaping domestic violence or facing financial hardship.
Every backpack filled is more than a collection of supplies. It’s a message to a child that they belong, that they matter and that their community is cheering them on.
How you can help
We’re collecting new school supplies for students in kindergarten through 12th grade through Thursday, Aug. 13, in preparation for Back-to-School Backpack events in Portland, Happy Valley and Salem.
Some of our most-needed items include:
- New backpacks
- Notebooks, folders and binders
- Pencils, pens and highlighters
- Crayons, markers and colored pencils
- Glue sticks and scissors
- Headphones or earbuds
- Scientific calculators
- Lunch boxes and reusable water bottles
- Gift cards to help purchase age-appropriate supplies and fill remaining needs
You can shop from our Amazon Wish List and have items shipped directly to Catholic Charities of Oregon, or purchase supplies locally and drop them off at our office.
Why it matters
A backpack may seem like a small thing, but for a child walking into a new classroom, it can make all the difference.
Having the right supplies helps students participate fully in class, build confidence and focus on learning instead of worrying about what they don’t have. It also eases the financial burden on parents who are already stretching every dollar to keep their families housed, fed and safe.
This backpack drive is another way our community can help create stability for children and families during a season that often brings added financial stress.
Ready to help?
Donate new school supplies by Aug. 13, shop our Amazon Wish List or arrange a local drop-off by contacting donations@ccoregon.org.
Thank you for helping local students start the school year ready to learn.