Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano today announced the launch of the City’s annual “Backpack to School” donation drive. The 15th annual donation drive provides backpacks and school supplies to Yonkers Public Schools students most in need.
“We’re committed to making sure families have the support they need, including basic school supplies, which can be a financial challenge” said Mayor Spano. “Here in Yonkers, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to succeed, in the classroom and beyond. By partnering with local businesses, nonprofits, and generous residents, we’re transforming compassion into action and ensuring our students begin the school year with confidence and the tools to thrive.”
Beginning today, backpacks and school supply donations may be made at the following “Backpack to School” drop-off locations until Thursday, August 20th
- Yonkers City Hall – 40 South Broadway (Lobby)
- Riverfront Library – 1 Larkin Center
- Grinton I. Will Library – 1500 Central Park Avenue
- Crestwood Library – 16 Thompson Street
All four Yonkers Police Precincts
- PCT 1 – 730 E. Grassy Sprain Road
- PCT 2 – 441 Central Park Avenue
- PCT 3 – 435 Riverdale Avenue
- PCT 4 – 53 Shonnard Place
Suggested supply packages for donation include new backpacks filled with the following school supplies:
- Crayons
- Colored pencils
- Washable markers
- Glue sticks or Elmer’s glue
- Rulers
- Pink erasers
- #2 pencils
- Pencil Sharpeners
- Loose-leaf paper
- Composition Books
- Pencil pouches.
- Pocket folders
- Hand sanitizer
- Tissue Packets
- Masks/Face coverings
The latest survey on school supplies for 2026 from the National Retail Federation (NRF) determined that families with kids in grades K-12 expect to spend $863.86 on clothing, shoes, school supplies and electronics. Total back-to-school spending is expected to reach $43.3 billion, up from $39.4 billion last year.
Backpacks and supplies will be distributed to a Pre-K – 8 school as selected by Yonkers Public Schools. For more information, contact the Mayor’s Office at 914-377-6300 or visit https://yonkersny.gov/backpackdrive.