Families who can't afford backpacks, graphing calculators or other school essentials before the 2026-27 school year begins can call the Newton Public Schools Social Services Division at 617-796-1420 or contact their child's school social worker to request supplies.
The items come through Newton Neighbors' annual School Supply Drive, which launched July 13 and runs through Saturday, Aug. 15. The nonprofit coordinates directly with NPS social workers to identify students in need and get supplies into their hands. The Aug. 15 deadline falls roughly 10 days before most Newton Public Schools students return to class.
Last year, the drive provided backpacks and supplies to more than 150 Newton students. Organizers said they hope to surpass that number in 2026 with the community's help.
Newton Health and Human Services recognized Newton Neighbors in December 2025 for its work addressing food insecurity in the city, alongside the Arabic Baptist Church, Centre Street Food Pantry and Newton Food Pantry.
What's needed
The group is prioritizing middle and high-school backpacks, lunchboxes, water bottles, TI-84 CE graphing calculators and $25 Amazon, Visa or Mastercard gift cards families can use for clothing and remaining supplies. The TI-84 CE is required for many math and science courses at Newton North and Newton South high schools, and a new one runs well over $100.
Where to drop off donations
Four locations across Newton are accepting items through Aug. 15:
- The Village Bank
- Auburndale Community Library
- The Street Chestnut Hill
- Fulfilled Goods
Donors can also purchase items from Newton Neighbors' Amazon wishlist for direct delivery to the organization, or give cash at newtonneighbors.org/donate.
The drive is not first-come, first-served. NPS social workers match supplies to students based on need, so families should reach out even if they aren't sure they qualify. Call the Social Services Division at 617-796-1420 or speak with your child's school social worker before Aug. 15 to be connected with available supplies.
