Make a Difference: Donate School Supplies This Summer

Written by Michelle Elliott, Regional Manager, Downtown Main Library

The Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library (CHPL) is partnering with Volunteers of America for Operation Backpack, a program aimed at supplying backpacks and school essentials to children in underserved situations. This initiative will run from June 28 to Aug. 8. You can contribute by dropping off supplies to designated donation boxes located at participating Library locations. 

The Operation Backpack Initiative 

Operation Backpack provides essential school supplies to under-resourced children, including new backpacks filled with necessities to foster hope and equal educational opportunities. Many families face challenges affording these items, averaging $890 per child, as they prioritize basic expenses. The initiative addresses this gap, enabling all children to pursue their dreams equally. 

What You Can Donate 

Teachers recommend the top ten most needed school supplies: 

1. Pencils 
2. Pencil pouch 
3. Blue or black ball point pens 
4. Highlighters 
5. Markers (8-Count) 
6. Erasers 
7. Three ring binder 
8. Spiral notebooks 
9. Folders (with pouches) 
10. New Backpacks 

Other items to donate include: 

1. Notebook Paper 
2. Binders 
3. Erasers 
4. Rulers 
5. Two-Pocket Folders 
6. Scissors 
7. Crayons (24-Count) 
8. Pencil Sharpeners 
9. Deodorant 
10. Bar Soap 
11. Toothpaste 
12. Toothbrushes 
13. Shampoo/Conditioner 

Where You Can Donate 

You can donate school supplies and essentials at the following participating library locations: 

• Anderson Branch  
• Bond Hill Branch  
• Downtown Main Library  
• Green Township Branch  
• Harrison Branch  
• Loveland Branch  
• Madeira Branch  
• Sharonville Branch  
• Walnut Hills Branch  
• Westwood Branch  

Thank you for your help and commitment to helping kids in need achieve success!