LAST CHANCE: FAMILIES MUST REGISTER THIS WEEK FOR FREE BACK-TO-SCHOOL SUPPLIES
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Sharre Whitson
Regional Director of Development
W: (541)773-6965 | C: (530) 227-2474
Sharre.Whitson@usw.salvationarmy.org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
LAST CHANCE: FAMILIES MUST REGISTER THIS WEEK FOR FREE BACK-TO-SCHOOL SUPPLIES
The Salvation Army will provide local children with backpacks and supplies selected from their school-recommended lists
MEDFORD, Ore., August 3, 2026 — The Salvation Army Jackson County is reminding local families that this is the final week to register children for free backpacks and essential school supplies before distribution begins next week.
Families with school-aged children must register by Friday, August 7, by calling The Salvation Army at 541-773-6965. Distribution appointments will take place during the week of August 10, with details provided when families register.
Unlike a traditional backpack giveaway, The Salvation Army offers children a personalized shopping experience. Each child receives the supply list recommended for their school and grade, then selects the backpack, notebooks, pencils, folders, crayons and other essential items they need to begin the school year prepared.
“Every child deserves to walk into school feeling prepared, confident and excited to learn,” said Major Jonnette Mulch of The Salvation Army Jackson County. “For families already working hard to cover food, housing and other necessities, the cost of school supplies can become overwhelming. This experience gives children the dignity and joy of choosing their own supplies while reminding them that their community believes in them.”
Families should not wait until distribution begins to request assistance. Registration is required, and supplies will be provided based on availability.
Community Support Still Needed
Community members can help ensure every registered child receives the supplies they need by donating new backpacks and school supplies or volunteering to assist with the program.
School supply and backpack drives are currently taking place throughout the community with support from:
Donations may also be delivered directly to The Salvation Army, 304 Beatty Street in Medford, or made online through The Salvation Army Jackson County. Individuals and groups interested in volunteering may call 541-773-6965.
Needed items include backpacks, spiral and composition notebooks, folders, pencils, pens, crayons, colored pencils, markers, highlighters, glue sticks, scissors, rulers, pencil boxes, calculators, index cards and dry-erase markers.
“Whether someone donates one backpack, a handful of notebooks or the funds needed to complete a child’s school list, every gift matters,” Major Mulch said. “Together, we can make sure local children begin school knowing they are supported, valued and ready to succeed.”
Registration Information
Deadline: Friday, August 7, 2026
Who: Local families with school-aged children
How to Register: Call 541-773-6965
Distribution: By appointment during the week of August 10
Location: The Salvation Army, 304 Beatty Street, Medford
About The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army has been meeting human needs in Jesus’ name without discrimination for more than 150 years. In Jackson County, The Salvation Army provides food, housing, emergency assistance, youth programs and other services that help local individuals and families move toward stability and hope.