Events

Current and Upcoming

11th Annual Backpack Giveaway

Local youth received backpacks and school supplies at the 2025 back-to-school block party. Photo credit: Michael DiVito
August 26, 2026
1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
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Old Broadway between 125th and 126th streets.

The 11th Annual Back-2-School Backpack Giveaway, hosted by Columbia University, NYPD 26th Precinct Community Affairs, Manhattan Community Board 9, and the West Harlem Development Corporation, will take place on Aug. 26 on Old Broadway between 125th St. and 126th St. from 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm.

Festivities include:

  • A DJ, entertainment, and games.
  • School Supplies (Grades 1-7 — while supplies last, children must be present).
  • Food and refreshments (while supplies last).


Join us to kick off the school year!

Want to Donate School Supplies? There’s Still Time

Columbia Community Service, Facilities and Operations, and Public Safety are proudly collecting donations of essential school supplies for the Back-2-School giveaway through Aug. 24. Learn how to donate school supplies.