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. However, due to the rapid increase of back-to-school costs, many 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.

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. 

"As a parent struggling to make ends meet, this support meant I didn't have to choose between food and school supplies. The kindness shown to our family meant more than words can express. Thank you" - Grateful Parent. 

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
    • Winmar Property Restoration Specialists: 202 South Blair Street, Unit 3, Whitby, ON, L1N 8X9.
    • Oshawa Public Library - Delpark Homes Centre Branch: 1661 Harmony Road N, Oshawa, ON L1K 0Z8.
    • Oshawa Public Library - Jess Hann Branch: 199 Wentworth Street W, Oshawa, ON L1J 6P4.
    • Oshawa Public Library - John Aker Northview Branch: 250 Beatrice Street E, Oshawa, ON L1G 7T6.
    • Oshawa Public Library - McLaughlin Branch: 65 Debwewin Miikan (formerly Bagot St.), Oshawa, ON L1H 1N2.
• 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
• Hosting your very own Operation Backpack Fund Drive
  • Click here to set up your very own Operation Backpack campaign
• Attending the Stuff The Bus Event
• Volunteer at upcoming backpack stuffing events