What is Operation Backpack?

Every child deserves to begin the school year with a backpack full of supplies---and the confidence that comes with being prepared. But for more families than ever, back-to-school costs are a growing challenges, and some students are starting the year without the essentials.

This summer, six local organizations are working together through Operation Backpack to support children and youth heading back to school. The goal is simple: to ensure every student in Durham Region has what they need to feel prepared and confident on their first day of class.

A First for Durham Region

This is the first time our organizations have coordinated our efforts in a unified way. By working together, we are making it easier to support and ensuring more families get the resources they need, when they need it most.

The Organizations Working Together

• Durham Children's Aid Foundation
• Durham Community Health Centre
• Ignite Durham Learning Foundation
• Simcoe Hall Settlement House
• St. Andrew's Community Food Bank
• United Way of Durham Region

Last Year, over 6,000 backpacks were distributed across Durham Region. This year, by working together, we hope to extend our reach and support more children acoss the region. 

Will you join us?

How to Help:

• Donating here to help fund supplies
• Dropping off school supplies at public donation bins
  • Location(s) Include:
    • Durham District School Board: 400 Taunton Road East, Whitby, Ontario, L1R 2K6.
    • Simcoe Hall Settlement House: 387 Simcoe Street South, Oshawa, Ontario, L1H 4J2.
    • St. Andrew's Community Food Bank: 209 Cochrane Street, Whitby, Ontario, L1N 5H9.
• Hosting a donation bin at your workplace, school, or place of worship
  • If you are interested and would like a bin and/or posters please click here
• Attending the Stuff The Bus Event
• Volunteer at upcoming backpack stuffing events