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 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.
Fré Ak Sé’s Community Pop-Up Sale and Health Fair
Where: Queens Village Veterans Plaza, between Jamaica Avenue and Amboy Lane
When: Saturday, Sept. 12 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Frè Ak Sè‘s community health fair helps families gear up for the new year with free giveaways, including clothing, shoes, kitchen items, household goods and miscellaneous items. While there, see a nutritionist and get a health screening with Oak Street Health.
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.
Uptown Kid Lit Festival
Where: Inwood Hill Park, Upper Manhattan
When: Sunday, Sept. 13 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Families can head to Word Up Community Bookshop/Librería Comunitaria’s annual Uptown Kid Lit children’s festival for free books and classroom essentials, along with read-aloud sessions, drag story hour, bilingual musical performances and a panel on grief. This year’s festival will highlight bilingual books and programming designed to get kids excited about reading as they head back to school. Check out the festival’s program. Alternative rain location will be the Sugar Hill Children’s Museum of Art & Storytelling.
Back-to-School Resource Fair for LGBTQ+ youth and allies
Where: The Center, 208 W. 13th St.
When: Monday, Sept. 14 from 5 to 7 p.m.
The Center is hosting a back-to-school resource fair for LGBTQ+ families and allies. Attendees can connect with LGBTQ+ providers and resources, from mental health and medical care to information about internship opportunities. Free books and school supplies will be available. Registration is required.
Can I get free supplies if I’m going to college?