Updated July 24, 2026
By Michele Miller
What’s What New Port Richey
Yes, we just got over celebrating the 4th of July, and now we’re looking at what comes next.
For many in our midst – students, parents, educators, and support staff – it’s the start of the 2026- 2027 school year.
Getting off on the right foot – feeling good about yourself and what you’re wearing goes a long way for the kids who might have to go without. Getting an extra boost in classroom supplies can support upward mobility for teachers.
Here’s the start of how those who want to help can help – and those who might be in need can find some help. Have an organization that’s conducting a school supply drive? Send us your info, and I’ll add it to the list
Stuff the Bus School Supply Drive, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Saturday, July 11 at Plaza of the Oaks in Hudson
Back To School Health & Wellness Event, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Saturday, July 18, at Hudson High School
Bring the whole family and join us for a FREE community celebration filled with fun, health, and resources for all ages!
Enjoy music, food, games, and family-friendly activities, all in one place. Explore health services, local vendors, entertainment, and a special appearance by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Street Team, bringing interactive games, surprises, and more!
- FREE Activities & Giveaways include: Backpacks, school supplies, haircuts for kids and adults, face painting, raffles & prizes, including kids’ bicycles.
- On-site healthcare services for children include: Dental screenings, TDAP vaccines, school and sports physicals (available for a small fee by appointment)
- Vendors & Community Resources: Connect with 60+ local vendors, including healthcare providers, nonprofits, and community organizations. Many will offer free swag and giveaways while supplies last.
- Food & Entertainment
- Food will be provided by Premier Community HealthCare and the Hudson Community Health & Resource Center, along with music throughout the event to keep the celebration going.
- Location: Hudson High School – Gym, 14410 Cobra Way, Hudson, FL. Phone: 352-834-1756
Pasco County Back To School Bash, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Saturday, July 18, at the James Irvin Civic Center in Dade City
Join the City of Dade City and Pasco County Parks, Recreation & Natural Resources for the Back to School Bash on Saturday, July 18, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the James Irvin Civic Center. Families can enjoy inflatables, games, music, and a free school supply giveaway while supplies last.
- Amazon Wishlist: www.amazon.com/regi…/gl/guest-view/WICX82B5STLS…
- Every notebook, backpack, pack of crayons, and pencil donated helps a child start the school year with confidence. Together, we can make sure our students are prepared for a successful year in the classroom.
Back to School Clothes Swap, 2 – 5 p.m. Friday, July 31, at the New Port Richey Library | Donations accepted starting on July 24
Bring in any kids’ clothing or accessories that are clean and in good condition, beginning Friday, July 24th. Donations will be accepted in the children’s library. Then come back on the day of the Swap to shop for items new to YOU! Don’t have anything to donate? You can still come and shop at the Swap. Any items not selected at the Swap will be donated to local community closets.
- Accepting items for babies, kids, and teens.
- Clothing items accepted (no undergarments or swimsuits, please), sunglasses, hats, shoes, purses, and other “wearable” accessories.
- No adult clothing or non-wearable items, please.
- Please be sure that items are clean and in good condition.
- No additional items will be accepted after Friday, July 31st.
Marjorie’s Hope Donation Drive, 12 – 3 p.m. Saturday, July 25, at three locations
On the Needs List – Suits, dress shirts, cocktail dresses and gowns, shoes and heels.
Marjorie’s Hope Back To School Supply Drive, through July 31, 2026
McDowell Foundation 6th Annual Back-to-School Bash, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Saturday, August 1, at Gulf View Square Mall in Port Richey
Free backpack and school supply giveaway
Learning stations and student success activities
Vendor Row with local resources and community partners. Special activities, games, crafts, giveaways, and surprises. Food, music, and family fun
Support for local kids as they prepare for the school year with confidence. For more information about the event or to donate, themcdowellfoundation.org/bash
Back to School Bash, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Saturday, August 8 at the Regency Park Library in New Port Richey
Join us for a fun and exciting Back to School Bash as we get ready for the new school year! Kids can pick up free school supplies and decorate a backpack (while supplies last), enjoy our hands-on Touch-a-Truck experience, and take part in back-to-school photos.
Online Donation Opportunity! Salvation Army Virtual Stuff the Bus Campaign
From the website
The Virtual Stuff the Bus campaign makes it easy to support local children by turning your donation into backpacks, notebooks, pencils, and other essential supplies.
Instead of dropping off items in person, you can “Stuff The Bus” online and make an immediate impact. Your support helps children in Salvation Army programs and underserved communities start the school year with dignity and confidence.
For more information, visit the Salvation Army Stuff the Bus page here.
Volunteer Way Operation Backpack
The Volunteer Way is excited to help local students get ready for a successful school year! We will be giving away 200 backpacks filled with school supplies to families in our community who need a helping hand.
Backpacks are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so don’t wait! If you know a family that could benefit from this program, please have them stop by and see Ashley at the Volunteer Way, 8061 Congress St., Port Richey, FL. Call (727) 815-0433. Email: Info@TheVolunteerWay.org
We are also still collecting school supply donations! Items such as pencils, pens, notebooks, folders, crayons, markers, highlighters, and filler paper are greatly appreciated
- Donation drop-off locations
- The Volunteer Way, 8061 Congress Street, Port Richey
- • Office Depot, US Highway 19, in Port Richey
- • Planet 13 on Ridge Road in Port Richey
Metropolitan Ministries Project Cool Backpack of Hope Drive
For information on donations or to get help, visit www.metromin.org
Pasco County Two Good Soles 5K – Provides Shoes and Socks for Pasco County Students
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