Tools for School - United Way Alberta Capital Region

Tools for School

In some areas of the Alberta Capital Region, the need for backpacks filled with school supplies is as high as 8 in 10 students. United Way’s Tools for School aims to reduce one known barrier preventing children and youth from successful learning and participation in school. Through support of community donors and corporate sponsors, we continue to meet the needs of children and youth in our community.

Giving kids the tools they need to succeed

High Needs Items

To ensure students are not identified as accessing the program, we ask that no company logos appear on donated items. All donations must be new or unused.

  • Backpacks
  • 1”-2” Binders
  • Coiled Notebooks
  • Lined Paper
  • Pencil crayons
  • Washable markers
  • Wax crayons

Program Approved Supply Lists

United Way’s Tools for School program distributes school kits in three standardized grade categories, each with a list of required school supplies compatible with participating school divisions. You can download a printable list!

Kindergarten - Grade 3Grade 4- Grade 6Grade 7-12
Backpack (1)Backpack (1)Backpack (1)
Duo Tangs (5)
1.5″ to 2” Binder (1)1.5″ to 2” Binder (1)
Eraser (2)
Blue Pens (2)Blue Pens (2)
Interlined Exercise Book (1)
Duo Tangs (5)
Coiled Notebook (1)
1/2 Plain 1/2 Interlined Exercise Book (1)
Eraser (2)Dividers (1 package of 5)
Glue Stick (1)Exercise Books (4)
Duo Tangs (5)
Pencil Box (1)
Glue Stick (1)Eraser (2)
Pencil Crayons (1 box)
Highlighters (2)
Highlighters (2)
Pencils (10)
Lined Paper (1 package)
Lined Paper (1 package)
Ruler (1)
Pencil Box (1)
Pencil Box (1)
Washable Markers (1 box)
Pencil Crayons (1 box)
Pencils (10)
Wax Crayons (1 box)Pencils (10)
Ruler (1)

Drop-Off Locations and Product Drives

School supply donations can be dropped off at United Way’s InKind Exchange at 14710 – 112 Ave, Edmonton, by appointment only. Please call 780-990-1000 to book your drop-off time.

Drop-off bins will also be conveniently available at Staples locations between August 1 and September 15, 2022.

Donate to Tools for School


What we've achieved in 2022

Staples stores in the Alberta Capital Region raised more than $136,500 at the registers in support of Tools for School.

$677,785

Total Fair Market Value

298 volunteers

gave 735 hours to build the filled backpacks

16,289

backpacks and kits distributed

Our partners are so important and we accomplish a lot together

Need a Backpack?

We ask that parents living in the Alberta Capital Region who need to access the program contact the school their child will be attending and let them know their child requires a Tools for School backpack. In the event the school is not currently participating in the Tools for School program, please have your school contact us. If you are a principal or teacher looking for backpacks for your students, please email us at [email protected]