Thousands of children live in NYC’s homeless and domestic violence shelters. One of the most devastating consequences of homelessness is the impact it has on a child's education. These children need school supplies for the upcoming school year. You can help!
There are several ways to help:
Donate Now
Use our simple and secure online donation form to set up a one-time or recurring gift.
Host a Drive
A drive is a wonderful way to come together as a team to make a difference in the community. Companies throughout New York host Operation Backpack drives, collecting backpacks and school supplies for kids in need. To host a drive, contact Kristin at kkjangraw@voa-gny.org or 212.496.4307.
Shop Online
Use our online Amazon wishlist to purchase the school supplies you'd like to contribute. (Please include your name and address, or email us, so that we can thank you!) Have supplies sent to your office if you're hosting a drive, or directly to us:
Volunteers of America, Attn: Kristin Kelly-Jangraw
340 West 85th Street | New York, NY 10025
Drop Off School Supplies
Drop off new backpacks or new school supplies at any time at our office, or at any Duane Reade during the month of July. Other drop locations will be posted shortly. Just use the grade-specific shopping lists for the much needed supplies.
More About Operation Backpack:
In 2011, we set a new record, collecting and distributing 8,000 new, filled backpacks to kids in homeless and domestic violence shelters. (View photos from last year's Operation Backpack.) This year, the need is ever greater. We hope to provide a new, filled backpack to every kid who needs it.
- The lives we touch: watch a video about a student who was helped by Operation Backpack.
- Meet Paige Davis, our dedicated spokesperson for Operation Backpack. Watch the Operation Backpack PSA with Paige, and her interview with NY1 News Kristen Shaughnessy.
- See Volunteers of America and Operation Backpack ring the closing bell at the New York Stock Exchange
- View our photo gallery: Operation Backpack campaign over the years