Backpacks for Back to School

This project is made possible by in-kind donations of backpacks and supplies, as well as monetary donations from individuals, area businesses, faith-based organizations, and civic groups. The volunteer opportunities allow community members to get involved by helping pack the backpacks and assisting families to get their backpacks on Distribution Day. Our goal this year is to have 1,600 new backpacks, filled with new age-appropriate supplies, packed and ready for Distribution Day.

Our Backpacks for Back to School Program will be hosted at the Ledge Street Elementary School Gymnasium. Entrance will be at the back of the school, at the gym doors. Distribution day is Tuesday, August 19.

We know not everyone likes to shop! A donation to our Backpack program will help cover expenses when we shop for items needed on our Supply List. Follow the secure link below to donate online. Please make the note “Backpacks” in the Comments box so we know the funds you are donating will be used to help students in need with a new backpack filled with new, grade-appropriate supplies. Thank you!

When accessing our calendar, go to the box labeled “Events” and select “Backpacks for Back to School Program.” It will display all the opportunities we offer for this program. If you’d like your group to volunteer, you can sign up individually or contact carol@nsks.org, who can reserve spots for everyone in your group (if spots are available).

Our Backpacks for Back to School program is being hosted at the Ledge Street Elementary School, 139 Ledge Street, Nashua. Packing will take place in the gymnasium.

If you are not already a volunteer at NSKS, please sign up as one first. Then select and sign up for the shift you are interested in.

If you do not receive services from our Food Pantry, but due to financial hardship you are not able to provide school supplies for your child, you will need to bring the following documentation to our Distribution Day:

1. Your Utility bill (electric bill, gas bill, or phone bill) within the past 60 days
2. Your current lease showing you are residing in the Greater Nashua area
   (Manchester, NH and outside of New Hampshire do not qualify for this program)
3. Your valid NH Driver’s License with your current address that matches your lease and bill
4. Documentation for each child entering kindergarten through grade 12 that you are requesting a backpack for

Please bring ONE of the following:

• Each child’s report card from June 2025;
• or their Immunization record;
• or a document or letter stating their bus route confirmed for September 2025;
• or a document or letter from the school that shows they are enrolled for September 2025.

• Please enter around the back of the school through the Gym door.
• If you are not a client who receives services from our Food Pantry, please bring the required documentation listed in the previous paragraph.
• We encourage you to bring your child/children with you so they can pick out their own backpack.