Back-to-school time can get really expensive. We understand that the cost of school supplies and clothing can be a major burden, especially with multiple children. Many organizations in the Albuquerque area provide assistance to families so that children can be prepared for success, regardless of their income level.
If you or someone you know is in need of assistance with school supplies or clothing, below is a list of a few places to get back-to-school assistance.
Thanks to Southwest Integrated Behavioral Health for sponsoring our Back to School Guide.
Outpatient Occupational Therapy (OT) and Speech Therapy (SLP) can help children overcome challenges and thrive.
As the school year begins, it’s important to know that services beyond the classroom are available to support children’s unique needs.
Speech therapy addresses difficulties with receptive and expressive language, communication (verbal and written), oral motor skills, and feeding, strengthening confidence, academic performance, and social skills. Occupational therapy focuses on improving motor skills, emotional regulation, executive functioning, sensory integration, and social skills, fostering greater independence in daily life.
Southwest Integrated Behavioral Health’s experienced therapists work with children diagnosed with Autism, ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Developmental Delays, Down Syndrome, and other genetic conditions. A referral from a child’s primary care provider is required to begin services. Comprehensive evaluations determine whether speech and/or occupational therapy is recommended.
APS Community Clothing Bank and School Supply Bar
All students at APS schools (including charter and alternative schools) are eligible to receive services from the APS Community Clothing Bank. If your student needs basic items, please reach out to their school’s counselor, family liaison, community school coordinator, social worker, or any school staff.
Back to School with PB&J Family Services
This event features a backpack giveaway, free haircuts, food, games, and music. Child must be present to receive a backpack while supplies last.
DATE: July 18, 2025
LOCATION: 209 San Pablo Street SE, Albuquerque, NM 87108
TIME: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Lerner and Rowe
1,000 FREE backpacks stuffed with school supplies will be given away at this indoor event! Students must be present to receive a backpack. Quantities are limited and will be handed out on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last.
DATE: July 18, 2025
LOCATION: New Mexico Expo (300 San Pedro Dr. NE, Albuquerque, NM 87108)
TIME: 4:00 p.m. until supplies last
Backpack Extravaganza at YDI
Bring the whole family to get kids ready for success! Find FREE backpacks & school supplies (while supplies last), free sports physicals, sweet treats (cotton candy and snow cones!), and gift raffles and fun surprises. There will also be community resources from ONIN Staffing, Bernalillo County Health, Subway, and You Matter Counseling Services!
DATE: July 19, 2025
LOCATION: 3411 Candelaria Rd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87107
TIME: 9 a.m. – noon
5th Annual Jump In 2 School Bash Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Posse
Saddle up! It’s time for the biggest back-to-school of the year. There will be free backpacks and school supplies, live music, giveaways, free haircuts and manicures, a rock climbing wall, and a giant foam party!
DATE: July 26, 2025
LOCATION: Bernalillo County Sheriff’s County Posse | 10308 2nd Street NW, Albuquerque
TIME: 12 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Atrisco Heritage Academy’s Annual Community Resource Fair
The Atrisco Heritage Academy (AHA) High School Family Center is thrilled to host its Annual Community Resource Fair on July 26, 2025. This event unites schools, families, and local organizations in support of student success and a stronger, more connected South Valley community.
DATE: July 26, 2025
LOCATION: main cafeteria at Atrisco Heritage Academy High School
TIME: 9 a.m. – noon
Back to School Bash at Rio Rancho Events Center
This free community event features free backpacks and school supplies, as well as haircuts or haircut vouchers for students. Please pre-register to attend.
DATE: July 27, 2025
LOCATION: Rio Rancho Events Center
TIME: 10 a.m.
Salvation Army
This organization doesn’t host an event. But families can sign up in early August to be on the school supply distribution list. Sometimes they can do on-the-spot distribution, or they may have a set distribution date. It varies year to year, but it will take place before the start of school. If school has already started, please feel free to contact them to see if any supplies are left over.
Back-to-School Brigade
Operation Homefront provides back-to-school supplies to support military families. Supplies are on a first-come, first-served basis. Please note that this event is for DEERS enrolled military dependent children only who will be in Kindergarten through 12th grade for the 2025 – 2026 school year.
DATE: August 2, 2025
LOCATION: Albuquerque, NM (The exact location will be disclosed after registration.)
TIME: 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Back to School Bash
Join Blue Door Neighborhood Center and Locker 505 for a fun event packed with activities for the entire family. The event will include school supplies, backpacks, music, fresh produce, community resources, and health education.
DATE: August 2, 2025
LOCATION: 3925 Las Estancias Way SW, Building 9, Suite A, Albuquerque, 87121
TIME: 9:00 am – noon
Cruzin’ Into the School Year
Free back-to-school supplies, resources, food trucks, and more! And it’s at two locations this year. Pre-registration is required. Registration opens July 21, 2025.
DATE: August 2, 2025
LOCATION: West Mesa & Cesar Chavez Community Centers | 5500 Glenrio Rd NW 87105 & 7505 Kathryn Ave SE 87108
TIME: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
South Valley Back to School Bash
Join BeWell at the South Valley Back to School Bash on Saturday, August 2, from 10 AM to 2 PM at Rio Grande High School. This free, family event offers school supplies, food boxes, entertainment, and more to help your family gear up for the school year.
DATE: August 2, 2025
LOCATION: Rio Grande High School | 2300 Arenal Rd SW, Albuquerque, New Mexico, 87105
TIME: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Backpack Giveaway at Restore Church
This annual Backpack and School Supply giveaway is coming up soon! If you’re interested, RSVP to [email protected] with your email, phone number, and the number of kids who need backpacks.
DATE: August 3, 2025
LOCATION: 136 Louisiana Blvd NE 87108
TIME: 3:45 p.m.
Do you know of other events we can add to this list? Let us know via email: [email protected].
