Believe it or not, it’s almost back to school time for our favorite city kiddies!
It’s been a great summer here in New York, and with those exciting new beginnings that come about with a new school year, families are also thinking about everything they’ll need for the year ahead—and a new backpack and fresh school supplies can add up quickly.
Luckily, NYC families have several chances to stock up without spending a dime this August. The nonprofit New York Restoration Project (NYRP) is hosting a series of free backpack and school supply giveaways at community gardens across the city, giving local kids a little extra help heading into the 2026–2027 school year.
Where to get free backpacks and school supplies in NYC
The giveaways are taking place across Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx and Staten Island throughout August, making it possible for families in neighborhoods across the city to find an event nearby.
The Bronx
- Saturday, August 15: Mildred T. Rhodebeck Garden, 927 Faile Street, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Saturday, August 15: Glover Street Community Garden, 1642 Castle Hill Ave., from 3 to 5 p.m.
Queens
Brooklyn
- Friday, August 21: Essex Street Community Garden, 3030 Fulton Street, from noon to 2 p.m.
- Saturday, August 22: McLeod’s Community Garden, 130 Liberty Ave., from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Manhattan
- Saturday, August 22: Riley-Levin Children’s Garden, 3703 10th Avenue, from noon to 2 p.m.
- Saturday, August 29: Home Depot Children’s Garden and Los Amigos Community Garden, 421 East 117th Street, from noon to 3 p.m.
Staten Island
That Staten Island giveaway has already taken place, but the remaining events continue throughout the rest of August.
What families should know
Families can register ahead of time through NYRP, but registration isn’t required for every visit. Walk-ups are welcome, though supplies are limited and will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Most importantly, children must attend the giveaway to receive the backpacks and school supplies.
And for anyone who still has a few more things to grab, there’s plenty of time to get organized before the first bell rings. The NYC Department of Education’s 2026–2027 school calendar is already available, so families can start planning those last few weeks of summer accordingly.
Because if there’s one thing New York parents know, it’s that summer disappears fast—and suddenly, it’s time to sharpen the pencils, pack the backpack and get ready for another school year.