NE Valley Times

Scottsdale’s annual Back to School Program provides essential school supplies, backpacks, clothing, and shoes to income-eligible Scottsdale-based students in kindergarten through 12th grade. In addition to school supplies, over 950 students received free books, dental screenings, activity bags, food, gift cards, and more to prepare them for the upcoming school year. The event took place on Tuesday, July 30 at the Scottsdale Stadium Fieldhouse.

“This program brings so much joy and relief to families and students,” says Julia Bautista, Human Services representative. “Seeing kids smile picking out a backpack, shoes and other items for the upcoming school year makes all the hard work that goes into the event worth it.”

In addition to Scottsdale Human Services, the event is made possible by local and city partners including:

- Scottsdale Community Partners

- Scottsdale Unified School District

- First Things First

- NOAH

- POSA

In an effort to collect donations for the 2025 Back to School Program, Scottsdale Human Services is partnering with the Scottsdale Police Department for a Catch a Ride Backpack Drive. The event takes place from 3 – 6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 20 at the McKellips District Station parking lot – 7601 E. McKellips Road.

Donate a new backpack and Scottsdale Police will take you for a short ride in a police cruiser on a closed course. Age restrictions apply; no riders under 12 years old. For kids 11 and under, fun photo opportunities are available.

Learn more and donate to Scottsdale’s Back to School Program.