It’s more than just a backpack. It’s a foundation for learning, belonging, and success.
The Supply A Student program equips students with new backpacks full of school supplies, helping improve preparedness, confidence, and participation. Donors and partners can support students at any level–from a single class to an entire school–making a direct impact on educational engagement and ownership.
How We Help
Having The Right Tools Changes Everything
Access to school supplies isn’t just about pencils and paper—it directly affects a student’s ability to learn and thrive. Teachers said that access to essential supplies impacts students in a number of ways.
This data makes one thing clear: When students have the supplies they need learning outcomes improve and students thrive.
The need is great—
but so is the difference we’re making together.
Ready to Build?
Hosting a Backpack Build is a meaningful way to give back—and bring people together.
At their Summer Backpack Build event, 3M once again demonstrated what true partnership looks like — contributing time, funding, and essential supplies to support students and teachers nationwide. From generous financial contributions to in-kind donations and hands-on volunteer hours, 3M’s commitment helps ensure that every backpack packed is filled with opportunity, hope, and the tools for success.
Bring your team together for a hands-on volunteer experience that supports under-resourced students nationwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
READY TO BUILD?
Backpack Builds offer a hands-on way to connect your team and make a lasting difference.
Just four things: school supplies, volunteer time, event space, and passionate people. Kids in Need Foundation handles all the coordination details! Our backpack build events bring communities together to create real impact for students who need it most.
These school supply events are completely flexible. Some groups finish in an hour, while others make it a full-day celebration. Volunteers can work in shifts or tackle everything at once. Whatever works for your corporate team, community group, or schedule.
We recommend about 1,450 square feet for 10–20 people to work comfortably. A covered area is helpful so the build can happen rain or shine.
Anyone! Backpack Builds are great for corporate teams, community groups and anyone looking to make a difference!