Save the date for Operation Back to School Chandler on July 15

Chandler’s largest school supply drive celebrates its 10-year anniversary with an in-person distribution event at a new location

CHANDLER, Ariz. – The City of Chandler and nonprofit For Our City-Chandler are once again teaming up prepare for the largest school supply drive in the East Valley to benefit Chandler students in need. This year’s Operation Back to School Chandler (OBTS) returns to an in-person event at a new location. Students and families who live or attend a school in Chandler are encouraged to save the date for Saturday, July 15, from 8-11 a.m. at Compass Christian Church, 1825 S. Alma School Road.

For the past three years, OBTS was held at several Chandler schools as drive-thru event. This year, backpacks filled with school supplies will be given to Chandler students as they walk through the campus of Compass Church. In addition to backpack giveaways, students also can receive free haircuts, shoes, socks and underwear – while supplies last. Please note, students are required to be present to receive services, must live or attend a school in Chandler, and must have their school name and grade ready upon arrival.

 

The event also will feature a community resources fair with organizations that provide direct services and resources to the Chandler community. Organizations interested in participating may sign up online at bit.ly/OBTS-ResourceFair.

 

For those interested in donating school supply items, there are several ways to contribute. The public may donate online at bit.ly/OBTS2023-Donations. To make a donation using cash or check, or to coordinate a donation drop-off or to host a supply drive, email [email protected]. A detailed list of items needed is available online at forourcitychandler.org/operation-back-to-school. The last day to make or coordinate a donation is Friday, June 16.

 

For more information about the donation drive, or to learn about volunteer opportunities for Operation Back to School (available June 12), visit forourcitychandler.org/operation-back-to-school or contact CC Cantabrana with the City of Chandler at 480-782-2218 or [email protected].