Collecting Donations Now
Each year, this program helps Polk County students and teachers start the school year with the tools they need to feel prepared and supported.
Donations from our community help us provide new backpacks, classroom supplies and grade-level essentials to students across Polk County.
Registration for the 2026 School Supplies Program will be open July 1–31. Distribution will take place between August 3–6 & August 10–13.
To receive updates on when school supplies registration opens for the 2026 - 2027 school year and other Outreach programs and events, follow us on Facebook and text "Outreach" to (888) 366-3895.
Why We Do It
"For 26 years, Outreach has helped Polk County students gear up with the tools they need to succeed in school"
Having the right tools for school is essential to a child’s academic success.
At Outreach, we understand that breaking the cycle of poverty and hunger starts with preparing children to learn and thrive in the classroom. Research shows that when children feel they have the same opportunities and resources as their peers, they are more confident, motivated, and engaged. Being academically prepared not only boosts self-confidence and self-worth but also leads to improved grades and long-term success.
This year Outreach supported both Polk County students AND teachers by collecting and purchasing essential school supplies.
Students received backpacks filled with grade-specific supplies, such as binders, folders, pencils, pens and composition notebooks. Teachers received classroom packs stocked with year-round essentials like dry erase markers, sticky notes, highlighters, Kleenex, disinfecting wipes and more.
Our 2025 Impact
597 Kids received new backpacks supplied with grade-appropriate school supplies
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345 students from Outreach families
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25 students through DSS
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43 students through Big Brothers, Big Sisters
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184 students during the Sheriff Department's Back-to-School Event
173 Teachers
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Received teacher tool-kits equipped with essential items for year-round use
7 Polk Schools
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4 Elementary Schools
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Polk County Middle School
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Polk County High School
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Polk County Early College
How You Can Help
Our School Supplies Program depend on the generosity of our community. Each year, Outreach collects and purchases new backpacks, pencils, notebooks, pens, paper, binders, and other essential supplies to support both students and teachers in our community.
You can help ensure classrooms are stocked and ready by contributing in one of two ways:
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Make a monetary donation by clicking the orange "Donate Now" button above. Please select “School Supplies Program” to direct your gift.
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Donate supplies by dropping off new backpacks and school supplies from the list below at Outreach (134 White Drive, Columbus, NC)
Your support makes a lasting impact!
