Why We Do It

"For 25 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.
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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.
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​​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.

To receive updates on when school supplies registration opens for the 2026 - 2027 school year and other Outreach programs and events, check www.tboutreach.org or text "Outreach" to (888) 366-3895.

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Our 2025 Impact

597 Kids received new backpacks supplied with grade-appropriate school supplies

• 345 students from Outreach families
• 25 students through DSS
• 43 students through Big Brothers, Big Sisters
• 184 students during the Sheriff Department's Back-to-School Event

173 Teachers

• Received teacher tool-kits equipped with essential items for year-round use

7 Polk Schools

• 4 Elementary Schools
• Polk County Middle School
• Polk County High School
• Polk County Early College

How To Help

Donate Now

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.
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​You can help ensure classrooms are stocked and ready by contributing in one of three ways:​

• ​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)

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​Below is a list of the most-needed new school supplies we're collecting to support local students and teachers:
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​School Supplies List (New supplies only, please)

• Backpacks
  • Character Backpacks for younger students
  • Larger backpacks for older students
• #2 pencils & mechanical pencils
• Large pink erasers
• Zipper pencil pouches and plastic pencil boxes
• Crayons
• Colored markers
• Colored pencils

• Dry Erase Markers
• Pens
• Highlighters
• Composition notebooks (college & wide ruled)
• Tab dividers
• Pocket Folders
• 1", 1-1/2", 2" Binders
• Safety Scissors
• Index Cards

Your support makes a lasting impact!

​To learn more about the school supplies program, contact Client Programs Manager, Stephen Stimac at [email protected] or (828) 894-2988, ext. 107.