It's More Than A Backpack!

School Supply Donation Drive: July 1- August 2, 2025

Stuff-A-Thon at the Kaiser Arena: August 2nd

Every year, Santa Cruz County Office of Education and United Way team up to host Stuff The Bus to gather essential backpacks and school supplies to help prepare youth for the new school year. We provide these backpacks and supplies to youth currently experiencing homelessness and/or other hardships.

Data from the County Office of Education states that there is over 2,500 youth who are currently experiencing homelessness or extreme hardship in Santa Cruz County. 

With your help, we are aiming to donate over 2,000 backpacks with new school supplies to Santa Cruz County youth who need them. Your donation will send youth back to school fully equipped and on the pathway to success!

How to get Involved: 

Donate: 

Your gift of $30 = one new backpack filled with essential school supplies. This new backpack will help promote learning, encourage self-esteem, and provide school supplies to youth in our community. Or you could purchase a new backpack and school supplies! Download the school supply list here

Volunteer: 

This family-friendly experience offers a great opportunity for community members to volunteer - filling backpacks with necessary school supplies and literally "stuffing a school bus"! Join us at the Kaiser Permanente Arena on August 2nd from 10:00-1:00 PM. Lunch and Snacks will be provided. (Volunteer Opportunities are limited this year and will be first come, first served) 

Volunteer Interest Sign Up

(Volunteer Spots are limited this year and will be first come, first served)