Operation Backpack

Operation Backpack is an annual summer backpack and school supply drive for students pre-k through 12th grade. This supplemental basic needs program is an integral part of our School Linked Services. The goal of Operation Backpack is to ensure that every student in need can attend school ready to learn.

Operation Backpack 2020 FAQ

To ensure the safety of our clients, staff, volunteers, and donors during the pandemic, we have made some necessary changes to this year's Operation Backpack program. Please see our FAQ below to learn more.

Question:
What is Operation Backpack going to look like this year?

Answer:
This year's backpack and school supply program already looks something like this:

Normally during the summertime, our big community-wide backpack and school supply drive would be in full swing with over 30 drop-off sites at local businesses and organizations. This year, we have had to make some changes to ensure the safety of all involved, so we have been doing a small-scale modified version of the program. This means that instead of putting out the call for backpack/supply donations from the community and holding a big distribution at the end of the summer, we are partnering directly with local school districts and other community organizations for several smaller, more localized fundraising and distribution efforts. Backpacks and supplies we distribute through these smaller distributions are being sanitized with the help of school maintenance staff, and/or quarantined for at least a week before being given to families.

With this newly adapted version of our program, we have already distributed over 80 backpacks filled with supplies this summer! We will provide local school districts with backpacks and supplies to keep on hand for students in need, and will continue to distribute as needed throughout the summer and the school year.

Question:
How can I help make sure children in need get backpacks and school supplies?

Answer:
If you would like to give to support our backpack and school supply program, you can donate online and note "Operation Backpack" in the comment box, or mail a check to The Pettengill House, Inc., 21 Water Street, Ste. 4A, Amesbury, MA 01913 and note "Operation Backpack" on the memo line. Donations of gift cards to stores that sell school supplies (i.e. Walmart, Staples, Target, etc.) are also a big help. We greatly appreciate your donation!

Please note that we do not have a school supply drop-off location this year. We are only able to accept monetary and gift card donations for this year's program unless previously arranged.

Question:
What can I do if I need assistance getting backpacks and school supplies for my children this year?

Answer:
Please give us a call at (978) 463-8801. If you are already a client, we will call you back to let you know if/when your child's district will be doing a distribution, or to arrange a pick-up or drop-off if needed. If you are not yet a client, we will schedule an intake appointment to see how we can best assist you with school supplies and other needs.