28th annual Operation Backpack set to begin for McDowell’s students
As the 2025-2026 school year comes to a close, the effort to make sure students are fully supplied when the 2026-2027 year starts back is underway now.
The 2026-2027 school year is Operation Backpack's 28th year of providing student school supply assistance, according to organizers.
The goal of Operation Backpack is to provide all K-12 underprivileged children in McDowell County’s public schools with a new backpack and school supplies. Although the majority of the supplies are usually distributed during the few weeks prior to school starting, Operation Backpack will supply students year-round as needed, according to a news release.
The summer months are a great time to collect new backpacks and school supplies for the students.
The program is collecting: backpacks, 1-inch three-ring binders, crayons, glue sticks, pens (blue, black and red), notebook paper, No. 2 pencils and colored pencils, safety scissors, composition books, toothbrushes, toothpaste, erasers, pocket folders, highlighters, pencil pouches and ear buds with microphone that are iPhone/android and iPad compatible, according to the news release.
“Thank you for your continued support and generosity to Operation Backpack,” reads the news release. The smallest gift given with love and compassion is priceless.”
Supplies and monetary donations are appreciated and needed. Donations are accepted year-round. Monetary donations may be written out to The Endowment Fund, for Operation Backpack. Donations may be mailed or brought to McDowell County Schools, 334 S. Main St., Marion, NC 28752.
Summer distribution to families is scheduled for Monday, July 20, through Monday, Aug. 3, Monday through Thursday; 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. A picture ID is required for proof of McDowell residence.
The distribution/inventory is located at East McDowell Middle School, 676 State St., Marion. You are asked to enter the back parking area via South McDowell Avenue. Operation Backpack is located in the rooms to the right of the East auditorium, according to the news release.
Eastfield Global Magnet School supplies will be available at the school during “Meet the Teacher” event on Wednesday, July 8, from 4-5:30 p.m. If attending EGMS, please request supplies at EGMS. School starts back on Thursday, July 9, for EGMS; Thursday, Aug. 6, for McDowell Early College and McDowell Academy for Innovation; and Monday, Aug. 24, for all other school locations.
During the school year, students can let their teacher or principal know when they need supplies. Organizers will provide assistance as long as supplies are available, according to the news release.
In 2020, Operation Backpack provided needed supplies to 873 students, and in 2021, 817 students received supplies. This was during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In 2022, 893 students got supplies through the program. In 2023, the number was 881. In 2024, 912 students got their needed supplies through Operation Backpack. Last year, the number was 965. This was during the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.
“We are very grateful for your support,” reads the news release. “Every donation makes a big difference. Because of you, we are able to provide students with school supplies and help them to have a successful school year.”
For more information, contact Melanie Dunham at 828-652-4535, ext. 4106, or email melanie.dunham@mcdowell.k12.nc.us.
