Starting the school year ready and confident is crucial for every student’s success. Unfortunately, more than 63% of students begin the year without the supplies they need, leaving more than 90% of educators to spend their own money filling these gaps. This is why our annual Back-to-School campaign is more important than ever before.
From July 7th through 25th, we’re hosting our annual Backpack and School Supply Drive, aimed at equipping students with essential tools such as backpacks, notebooks, pencils and more. These supplies make a real difference, easing financial pressure on both families and educators. You can support the drive in several ways:
- Donate online through our secure ePledge page.
- Shop our Amazon Wishlist to purchase much-needed backpacks and supplies.
- Drop off items at one of our designated locations across Central Alabama counties, including Blount, Chilton, Jefferson, Shelby, St. Clair and Walker.
By county, the physical drop-off locations include:
- Blount – Blount County Board of Education (415 5th Ave E in Oneonta)
- Chilton – Chilton County DHR (324 Health Center Drive in Clanton)
- Jefferson – United Way of Central Alabama (3620 8th Avenue S in Birmingham)
- Shelby – Shelby Emergency Assistance (160 Shoshone Drive in Montevallo)
- St. Clair – St. Clair County DHR (213 Fox Hollow Boulevard in Pell City)
- Walker – Chamber of Commerce of Walker County (204 19th E, Suite101 in Jasper)
In addition to the supply drive, we invite you to volunteer during our Back-to-School Beautification Week from July 14th to 19th. This hands-on effort transforms school campuses into vibrant, welcoming spaces where children feel safe and inspired to learn.
Businesses and organizations can also get involved through sponsorships. From sponsoring a school cleanup to funding fully packed backpacks or classroom kits, sponsors receive recognition and first access to volunteer opportunities and participation at events.
Your support creates brighter futures. When you invest in students today, you help build a stronger, more vibrant community for all of us.
To learn more, donate or sign up to volunteer, click here.
Together, let’s equip Central Alabama’s students for success in the classroom and beyond.