Looking for free backpacks in New York City? As the new school year starts, there are still several giveaways across the boroughs to set students up for success.
If you’re searching for a backpack giveaway near you, local elected officials, nonprofits, and community organizations are hosting events throughout September — most while supplies last, and many are free to attend with no registration required.
Here’s where to find events throughout the Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan and the Bronx:
Queens
Jackson Heights Library: Back-to-School Backpack Giveaway
Where: 35-51 81st St.
When: Thursday, Sep 3, from 3 to 3:30 p.m.
Join Jackson Heights Library for a back-to-school backpack giveaway. Pick up a free backpack and school supplies for the new school year while supplies last. Children must be accompanied by an adult to receive a backpack. One backpack per child. Backpacks and school supplies are donated by the Amazin’ Mets Foundation and Target Corporation.
Jamaica Backpack Giveaway at MS 358
Where: 88-08 164th St., Jamaica
When: Friday, Sept. 11 from 3 to 5 p.m.
In partnership with Queens Borough President Richard Donovan, Jr. and several community organizations, free backpacks will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. A parent or guardian must be present with a student to receive a backpack, and only one backpack will be available per student.
NeON Backpack Giveaway
Where: Thomas White Jr. Foundation Office, 162-04 Tuskegee Airmen Way, Jamaica
When: Saturday, Sept. 12 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Get ready for the new school year with the NYC Department of Probation’s Neighborhood Opportunity Networks, or NeONs. These community-based centers are distributing free backpacks and essential school supplies to students across New York City. Learn more.
Brooklyn
Brooklyn Occupational Training Center P721K: Back-to-School Giveaway
Where: P721K Brooklyn Occupational Training Center, 64 Avenue X
When: Wednesday, Sept. 2 from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Join this Brooklyn public high school as it kicks off the new school year with free giveaways and important school information. Giveaways include not only school supplies and backpacks but also art supplies, books and personal care items. Attendees will also have the chance to meet administration and support staff and, if applicable, receive assistance navigating ParentSquare, NYCSA and OPEROO. All K-2 families and P721K high school students and families are welcome. Note: parking is limited due to road paving. Learn more.
The Bronx
Grand Concourse Library: Back-to-School Party
Where: Grand Concourse Library, 155 E 173rd St., Children’s Room
When: Tuesday, Sept. 8 from 3 to 5 p.m.
This back-to-school celebration invites children ages 3 to 12 along with their parents at Grand Concourse Library. Supervision by parents or caregivers is mandatory. No registration is required, but supplies are first-come, first-serve while they last.
Manhattan
District 75: Back-To-School Bash
Where: Jacob Javits Center, 429 11th Ave.
When: Saturday, Sept. 6 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Join District 75 in starting the school year off right with a Back To School Bash at the Jacob Javits Center on Sept. 6. There will be school supply giveaways, games, activities, and prizes raffled off to attendees. Learn more.
