Backpacks, Books, and Big Smiles: Back‑to‑School Events Serve Families Across Michigan

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As late summer settles in, families across Michigan are gearing up for a new school year. A wave of community events is making the transition easier, offering free backpacks, school supplies, storytime, and family-friendly fun to help students start strong.

These gatherings provide more than just gear—they offer relief, dignity, and a reminder that communities thrive when they come together.

Whether it’s crayons and calculators or a simple lunch under a shaded tree, these back-to-school events are helping Michigan students show up prepared—and smiling.

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Back-to-School Events Across Mid-Michigan and Beyond

As the first day of school approaches, communities throughout Michigan are rallying together to support families. Here’s a list of confirmed backpack giveaways and supply drives organized by region.

LANSING & TRI-COUNTY AREA

“We All Win” Annual Backpack Giveaway

TechSmith HQ, 14 Crescent Dr, East Lansing, MI 48823

Wednesday, August 6 • 1:00–3:00 PM (or while supplies last)Hosted by Communities In Schools of Michigan with TechSmith. Sparty will make an appearance. Open to all students.

Communities In Schools Drive-Thru Giveaway

Don Johnson Fieldhouse (Parking Lot), 400 N. Pennsylvania Ave, Lansing, MI 48912

Monday, August 12 • 2:00–4:00 PM

Hosted with Power 96.5. Free backpacks and supplies. First-come, first-served.

NovaCare School Supply Giveaway

914 Charlevoix Dr, Suite 150, Grand Ledge, MI 48837

Thursday, August 14 • 4:30–5:40 PM

Open to all. Backpacks and supplies donated by community members.

Once Upon a Child Backpack Giveaway

5827 W. Saginaw Hwy, Lansing, MI 48917

Sunday, August 17 • Starting at 12:30 PM

100 backpacks available. First-come, first-served while supplies last.

Lansing Mall Giveaway

5330 W. Saginaw Hwy, Lansing, MI 48917

Saturday, August 16 • 11:00 AM

Free backpacks with school supplies. First-come, first-served.

JACKSON AREA

Found Church Back-to-School Supply Giveaway

141 E. Michigan Ave, Jackson, MI 49201

Sunday, August 10 • 1:00–3:00 PM

Supplies for 300+ students, free ice cream from RJ’s, and more.

DETROIT & METRO AREA

Back-to-School Rally

Racquet Up Detroit

Wednesday, August 6

Community rally with sports, school supplies, and resource booths.

Back-to-School Fest

Detroit Hispanic Development Corp

Thursday, August 14

Family-focused festival with giveaways, games, and information tables.

Lite Up the Year: Back-to-School Event

Charlotte Mason Community School,

17400 Second Ave, Detroit, MI 48203

Saturday, August 16 • 2:00–4:00 PM

Pre-registration required. Register at happeningnext.com

TMBC Backpack Giveaway & Resource Fair

2080 W. Grand Blvd, Detroit, MI

Saturday, August 23

Free supplies and community resources for families.

Loving Arms Back-to-School Event

Butzel Family Recreation Center

Saturday, August 30

School supplies, youth activities, and family programming.

YPSILANTI

2nd Annual Downtown School Supply Stroll

Downtown Ypsilanti

Sunday, August 17 • 2:00–5:00 PM

Kids collect free school supplies from local shops during this family walk.

ANN ARBOR REGION

Local School & Charity EventsMid to Late August (Dates Pending)

Various local charities, community centers, and libraries will offer back-to-school events. Stay tuned to local listings and partner organizations for details.