Lend a Hand: Support Uptown NYC Back-to-School Drives This Year
Donate to or attend these back-to-school drives this August and September.
Are you looking to be a good neighbor this back-to-school season?
This August and September, consider donating your extra school supplies to an Uptown back-to-school drive, so local students can get the supplies they need to start the year off strong.
If you are a local parent or legal guardian looking to offset the cost of brand-new school supplies, consider attending one of the listed drives Uptown that are helping local families in need.
Do you know of another fundraiser or school supply drive that we should include? Send us an email.
Columbia Community Service 9th Annual ‘Back-2-School’ Drive
Through August 28
Columbia Community Service (CCS), Columbia University Facilities and Operations’ Construction Business Initiative unit, and Columbia’s Office of Public Safety are teaming up with Harlem’s 26th Precinct to equip young scholars in the community with the supplies needed to successfully ease into the school year. Whether you reside in Harlem or the Heights, there are several ways to get involved.
Drop-off locations include:
- Morningside Campus (24/7): Public Safety Operations Office, Room 111, Low Library
- Manhattanville Campus (24/7): Public Safety Operations, 3270 Broadway
- Medical Center (24/7): Public Safety Operations, William Black Medical Research Building, Room 109
- Barnard College (Mon-Fri, 10 am - 4 pm): Office of Community Engagement & Inclusion, Milbank 010
- Teachers College (Mon-Fri, 10 am - 4 pm): Office of Community & Diversity Affairs (128 Zankel) OR Office of Public Safety (Whittier Hall, 1A)
The items will be distributed at the 9th Annual Back-2-School community event on August 28, which will feature hair-braiders, face painting, face tattoos, and plenty of food for everyone.
If you need to arrange a delivery or have any questions, please contact Ricardo Morales at [email protected] or 212-854-8513.
New York State of Mind Annual Back to School Drive
Through August 26
Launched in 2009, New York State of Mind (NYSOM) employs a wide range of services dedicated to improving the quality of life for the communities they serve. Every year, they hold an annual drive to supply students from underserved communities the supplies they need for the upcoming school year, partnering with Manhattan Mini Storage to accept donations from all over the borough.
NYSOM will be gathering school supplies from now until August 24, including bookbags, notebooks, and other items. Email [email protected] if you would like to donate. Learn more and RSVP on Eventbrite.
Worth A Milli 3rd Annual Back 2 School Giveaway
August 17
Worth A Milli Foundation will be hosting a fun-filled day for their back-to-school giveaway event. The event will include giveaways, games, and more as the organization helps students prepare for the upcoming school year. Donations or volunteers are welcome. Learn more and RSVP on Eventbrite.
Back-To-School Backpack Giveaway with Uptown Grand Central (Sold Out)
August 17
Uptown Grand Central, in partnership with Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine and Ponce Bank, will be hosting a Back-To-School Backpack Giveaway for the local community on August 17. The day includes all kinds of activities for kids, such as arts and crafts, face-painting, and more. Learn more on Eventbrite.
G.R.A.C.E. Inc's 6th Annual Back to School Block Party
August 31
G.R.A.C.E. (Granting Resources And Community Enrichment) Inc. is hosting their 6th Annual Back to School Block Party to help local families get excited for the new school year. It's a fun, family-filled day with engaging activities for youth and their families. This year's event will take place on August 31 and attendees will be able to enjoy food, concessions, backpack distributions, giveaways, free haircuts, and more. Learn more on Instagram.
10th Annual Community Picnic and Backpack Giveaway with Rotary Club of Harlem
September 21
The Rotary Club of Harlem, in partnership with the organization Active Plus, will be hosting a community picnic and barbecue for the local community. As part of this event, the organizers will also be accepting donations to purchase backpacks and school supplies for children in Harlem. Learn more and RSVP on Eventbrite.