Where to Get Free School Supplies Near New Haven

Back-to-School Season 2026

Each year families must shop for new back-to-school supplies for their children. For some of our neighbors, being able to afford new supplies is a challenge. Many of our neighbors are working hard to make ends meets, but purchasing new supplies can be a challenge. 

Several organizations around the Greater New Haven region offer opportunities for free school supplies to start the new school year off on the right foot. 

Below is a list of organizations offering free school supplies:

Town of Hamden - limited to Hamden residents only

Haven of Hope Back to School Fair - August 8th at 12PM, 2927 Dixwell Avenue, Hamden, CT

McDonald’s Golden Arches Pack Giveback Program
Aug. 5, 4-6 p.m.
783 East Main St., Meriden
 

Meriden Public Schools – McDonald’s Amato Organization
Aug. 5, 4-6 p.m.
533 South Broad St., Meriden
 

MPS Annual Backpack Expo at the Meriden Green
Aug. 15, 7 a.m.-2 p.m.
77 State St., Meriden
 

McDonald’s Golden Arches Pack Giveback Program
Aug. 5, 4-6 p.m.
325 Union St., Waterbury
 

Back to Basics Community Event
Aug. 15, 12-3 p.m.
33 Griggs St., Waterbury
Registration required
 

McDonald’s Golden Arches Pack Giveback Program
Aug. 5, 4-6 p.m.
44 Division St., Derby
 

McDonald’s Golden Arches Pack Giveback Program
Aug. 5, 4-6 p.m.
45 Thomaston Ave., Waterbury

New Haven Public School Back to School Rally

Aug. 14, 12pm - 4pm

James Hill House High School Bowen Field

Back to School Bookbag Giveaway

Aug 9. 10am-2pm

335 Putnam Avenue, Hamden, CT

Stuff Your Bag

Aug. 20, 4pm

John C. Daniels School, 569 Congress Avenue, New Haven, CT